Dry sprinkler

PRIORITY

0001This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/369,716, filed Feb. 11, 2009, which is a continuation of Ser. No. 10/622,631, filed Jul. 21, 2003 (now U.S. Pat. No. 7,516,800), which claims the benefits of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 of the following United States Provisional patent applications: Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/396,727 filed on 19 Jul. 2002, entitled, Dry Sprinkler; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/427,214 filed on 19 Nov. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With a Contact Member to Assist Movement of a Closure Member; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/432,998 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With a Contact Member to Assist Rotation of a Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/432,995 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With a Contact Bar to Assist Rotation of a Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/432,996 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler with Bearing to Assist Rotation of a Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/433,611 filed on 16 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With Resilient C-clip to Assist Rotation of a Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/432,999 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With an Offset Contact Edge to Assist Rotation of a Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/433,582, filed on 16 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With a Closure Assembly Having a Separable Seal; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/432,997 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With a Rolling Contact Member to Assist Rotation of a Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/432,984 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With a Closure Assembly Having a High Center of Gravity to Assist Rotation of the Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/432,985 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With a Closure Assembly Having an Off-Set High Center of Gravity to Assist Rotation of the Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/432,983 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With a Cord to Assist Movement of A Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/432,982 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With a Compression Spring to Assist Movement of a Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/433,001 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With a Tension Spring to Assist Movement of a Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/433,004 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With a Strap Assembly to Assist Movement of a Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/433,002 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With a Strap to Assist Rotation of a Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/433,003 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler with a Pivotal Fixed Leg Member to Assist Rotation of a Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/432,994 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled A Dry Sprinkler With A Pivotal Non-Fixed Leg Member To Assist Rotation Of A Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/433,610 filed on 16 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler with a Pivotal Member to Assist Rotation of a Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/433,599 filed on 16 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler With a Kicker to Assist Rotation of a Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/433,605 filed on 16 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler with a Flow Obstruction Member to Assist Rotation of the Closure Assembly; Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/433,612 filed on 16 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler with an Offset Flow Path to Assist Rotation of the Closure Assembly; and Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 60/433,005 filed on 13 Dec. 2002, entitled Dry Sprinkler with a Movable Seal and Kicker to Assist Rotation of a Closure Assembly, which Provisional patent applications are incorporated by reference in their entireties into this application.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

0002An automatic sprinkler system is one of the most widely used devices for fire protection. These systems have sprinklers that are activated once the ambient temperature in an environment, such as a room or building exceeds a predetermined value. Once activated, the sprinklers distribute fire-extinguishing fluid, preferably water, in the room or building. A sprinkler system is considered effective if it extinguishes or prevents growth of a fire. Failures of such systems may occur when the system has been rendered inoperative during building alternation or disuse, or the occupancy hazard has been increased beyond initial system capability.

0003The water supply for a sprinkler system may be separate from that used by a fire department. An underground main for the sprinkler system enters the building to supply a riser. Connected at the riser are valves, meters, and, preferably, an alarm to sound when water flow within the system exceeds a predetermined minimum. At the top of a vertical riser, a horizontally disposed array of pipes extends throughout the fire compartment in the building. Other risers may feed distribution networks to systems in adjacent fire compartments. Compartmentalization can divide a large building horizontally, on a single floor, and, vertically, floor to floor. Thus, several sprinkler systems may serve one building.

0004In the piping distribution network, branch lines carry the sprinklers. A sprinkler may extend up from a branch line, placing the sprinkler relatively close to the ceiling, or a sprinkler can be pendant below the branch line. For use with concealed piping, a flush-mounted pendant sprinkler may extend only slightly below the ceiling.

0005Water for fighting a fire can be provided to the sprinklers in various configurations. In a wet-pipe system, for buildings having heated spaces for piping branch lines, all the system pipes contain water for immediate release through any sprinkler that is activated. In a dry-pipe system, which may include pipes, risers, and feed mains, disposed in unheated open areas, cold rooms, passageways, or other areas exposed to freezing temperatures, such as unheated buildings in freezing climates or cold-storage rooms, branch lines and other distribution pipes may contain a dry gas (air or nitrogen) under pressure. This pressure of gas holds closed a dry pipe valve at the riser. When heat from a fire activates a sprinkler, the gas escapes and the dry-pipe valve trips, water enters branch lines, and fire fighting begins as the sprinkler distributes the water.

0006Dry sprinklers are used where the sprinklers may be exposed to freezing temperatures. A dry sprinkler may include a threaded inlet containing a closure assembly, some length of tubing connected to the threaded inlet, and a fluid deflecting structure located at the other end of the tubing. There may also be a mechanism that connects the thermally responsive component to the closure assembly. The threaded inlet is preferably secured to a branch line. Depending on the particular installation, the branch line may be filled with fluid (wet pipe system) or be filled with a gas (dry pipe system). In either installation, the medium within the branch line is generally excluded from the tubing of the dry sprinkler via the closure assembly until activation of the thermally responsive component. In some dry sprinklers, when the thermally responsive component releases, the closure assembly or portions of the mechanism may be expelled from the tubing of the dry sprinkler by water pressure and gravity. In other types of dry sprinklers, the closure assembly is pivotally mounted to a movable mechanism that is a tube structure, and the closure assembly is designed to pivot on a pin pivot axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the dry sprinkler, while the tube structure is maintained within the tubing of the dry sprinkler.

0007In known dry sprinklers, a metallic disc annulus has been provided as a component of a closure assembly to seal the inlet of the dry sprinkler. The metallic disc annulus has a face disposed about a central axis between an inner perimeter and outer perimeter. When the dry sprinkler is in an unactuated condition, the central axis of the metallic disc annulus is generally parallel and aligned with the longitudinal axis of the tubing. Upon actuation of the dry sprinkler, the metallic disc annulus provides an axial thrust force to assist in the movement of the closure assembly along the longitudinal axis of the tubing.

0008In order to utilize the metallic disc annulus, an arrangement of components is provided within the known dry sprinklers. This arrangement of components positions the metallic disc annulus within the passageway defined by the tube structure to prohibit and allow fluid flow through the dry sprinkler. The metallic disc annulus is positioned at the inlet to provide a seal of the inlet, and within the passageway to permit flow through the dry sprinkler. When the metallic disc annulus is positioned to occlude the inlet, the arrangement of components orients the central axis of the metallic disc annulus generally parallel to and aligned with the longitudinal axis. When the metallic disc annulus is positioned within the passage to allow flow through the outlet of the dry sprinkler, the arrangement of components translates the metallic disc annulus along the passageway.

0009Although the known dry sprinklers have employed a metallic disc annulus to utilize the axial thrust that it creates to translate the closure assembly within the passageway, the arrangement of components, including the metallic disc annulus, has been found to be inadequate for the performance of the dry sprinkler. Specifically, the inventors have discovered that the known arrangements of components translate the metallic disc annulus along the passageway, however, these arrangements of components appear to maintain an orientation of the central axis of the metallic disc annulus along the longitudinal axis of the dry sprinkler such that the known dry sprinklers fail to achieve their expected performance.

0010In particular, the inventors have discovered that the known dry sprinklers fail to provide a flow rate at an expected level of tolerance based on the discharge coefficient for which the known sprinklers purport to provide at various pressures provided to the inlet prior to actuation of the dry sprinkler (i.e., start pressures) between 0 and 175 psig. That is, as these known dry sprinklers are rated for a particular discharge coefficient, which is specified as a rated K-factor, the known dry sprinklers should provide an expected flow rate based on the rated K-factor. Here, the rated K-factor defines the expected flow of fluid in gallons per minute from an outlet of the dry sprinkler divided by the square root of the pressure of the flow of fluid fed into the inlet of the dry sprinkler in pounds per square inch gauge. Based on the rated K-factor, the known dry sprinklers should provide the expected flow rate from an outlet of the known dry sprinklers within an acceptable tolerance level when a specified pressure of fluid flow is applied to the inlet of the known dry sprinklers. The known dry sprinklers, however, provide an actual flow rate from the outlet at less than an acceptable tolerance level. Thus, the known dry sprinklers fail to provide an arrangement of components that allow for the metallic disc annulus to translate along the passageway into an orientation where the central axis of the metallic disc annulus is skewed to the longitudinal axis within the passageway so that a flow of fluid in gallons per minute from the outlet of the structure is at an acceptable level, such as at least 95 percent of the rated K-factor multiplied by the square root of the pressure of the flow of fluid fed into the inlet of the structure in pounds per square inch gauge.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

0011The present invention provides a dry sprinkler for a fire protection system. The present invention allows a dry sprinkler to operate over a range of start pressures for a rated K-factor. The present invention provides an operative dry sprinkler by maintaining a positive seal while the dry sprinkler is in a standby, i.e., unactuated mode, and by changing an orientation of a metallic disc annulus when a heat responsive trigger actuates the dry sprinkler.

0012According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler that includes a structure, a fluid deflecting structure, a locator and a metallic disc annulus. The structure defines a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The structure has a rated K-factor. The rated K-factor defines an expected flow of fluid in gallons per minute from the outlet divided by the square root of the pressure of the flow of fluid fed into the inlet of the passageway in pounds per square inch gauge. The fluid deflecting assembly is disposed proximate the outlet. The locator is movable along the longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position. The metallic disc annulus has a face disposed about a central axis between an inner perimeter and an outer perimeter. The outer perimeter contacts the structure so that the face occludes a flow of fluid through the passageway when the locator is proximate the first position. The metallic disc annulus is arranged with the central axis of the face being skewed from the longitudinal axis within the passageway when the locator is proximate the second position so that a flow of fluid in gallons per minute from the outlet of the structure is at least 95 percent of the rated K-factor multiplied by the square root of the pressure of the flow of fluid fed into the inlet of the structure in pounds per square inch gauge.

0013According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a locator. The locator includes a closure body having a base portion connected to a yoke. The yoke has first, second and third wall portions. The first and second wall portions are symmetric to a yoke axis. The third wall portion has a surface with a radius of curvature connecting the first and second wall portions such that the yoke axis is offset to the longitudinal axis when the locator is in the second position to permit fluid flow through the dry sprinkler.

0014According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator and a member. The member contacts at least one of the locator and a metallic disc annulus to translate a face of the metallic disc annulus to a side of the longitudinal axis when the locator moves from a first position toward a second position in the passageway. The member can be one of a torsion spring, helical coil spring, tension spring, tether, or crank arm.

0015According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator and a projection extending from the inner surface of the structure. The projection has a free end located in the passageway. The free end contacts at least one of the locator and metallic disc annulus to translate a face of a metallic disc annulus to a side of the longitudinal axis when the locator moves from a first position towards a second position so as to permit a flow of fluid through the passageway between the inlet and outlet.

0016According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator and a member. The member extends across the passageway and connects to the inner surface of the structure at a plurality of points of the inner surface of the structure. The member contacts at least one of the locator and a metallic disc annulus to translate a face of the annulus to a side of the longitudinal axis when the locator moves from a first position towards a second position in the passageway.

0017According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The structure includes a tubular member disposed about the longitudinal axis. The tubular member has an inner surface and an outer surface surrounding the inner surface. The tubular member includes a pair of bearings disposed between spaced points on the tubular member. Each of the bearings has a bearing surface extending along the longitudinal axis between the inner and outer surfaces. The dry sprinkler also has a member extending through a portion of the locator proximate the inlet. The member is movable along the longitudinal axis on the bearing surface of the structure to translate a face of a metallic disc annulus to a side of the longitudinal axis when the locator moves from a first position towards a second position in the passageway.

0018According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The structure includes a groove formed in the inner surface of the passageway about the longitudinal axis proximate the inlet. The dry sprinkler also has a resilient arcuate member that connects to the groove to form a pivot so that a face of a metallic disc annulus is movable about the longitudinal axis to permit a flow of fluid through the passageway between the inlet and outlet when the locator moves from a first position towards a second position in the passageway.

0019According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a locator. The locator includes an elongate member and a closure body configured to support the metallic disc annulus. The elongate member has an edge proximate the inlet. The edge supports the closure body on a line contact offset to the longitudinal axis such that the face of the metallic disc annulus translates to a position on a side of the longitudinal axis when the locator moves between the first and second position.

0020According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The locator includes a closure body having a disc support surface supporting the metallic disc annulus. The dry sprinkler has a structure that includes a projection extending from the inner surface of the structure towards the longitudinal axis in a passageway extending between the inlet and outlet. The projection has a free end located in the passageway. The free end contacts the metallic disc annulus to separate the metallic disc annulus from the closure body such that the closure body falls in the passageway proximate the outlet when the locator moves from a first position towards a second position in the passageway.

0021According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The locator includes a closure body and an elongate member extending along a longitudinal axis. The closure body has a first surface provided with a first radius of curvature facing the outlet of the dry sprinkler. The elongate member has a second surface providing a second radius of curvature, which faces the inlet of the dry sprinkler and supports the first surface so that the first surface rotates on the second surface when the locator moves from a first position towards a second position in the dry sprinkler.

0022According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The inlet includes a sealing surface disposed about the longitudinal axis proximate the inlet. The locator includes a top portion extending toward the inlet past the sealing surface with a center of mass of the locator in a first position relative to the structure of the sprinkler. The center of mass is movable by fluid flowing through the inlet so that a face of a metallic disc annulus is moved to a side of the longitudinal axis when the locator moves from the first position towards a second position within the structure.

0023According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The inlet includes a sealing surface disposed about the longitudinal axis proximate the inlet. The locator includes a top portion having a chamber extending toward the inlet past the sealing surface in the first position of the locator within the passageway. The chamber can be filled with fluid flowing through the inlet so that the face is moved to a side of the longitudinal axis when the locator moves from the first position towards the second position.

0024According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The structure includes a cord connected to the structure by a first attachment device and connected to the locator by a second attachment device such that the cord tethers the locator to the structure to move a face of a metallic disc annulus to a side of the longitudinal axis in the passageway when the locator moves from the first position towards the second position in the passageway.

0025According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The locator includes a compression spring extending between a portion of the locator disposed between the inlet and the outlet. The compression spring moves a face of a metallic disc annulus to a side of the longitudinal axis when the locator moves from the first position towards the second position in the passageway.

0026According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The locator includes a tension spring extending between a portion of the locator disposed between the inlet and the outlet. The tension spring moves a face of a metallic disc annulus to a side of the longitudinal axis when the locator moves from the first position towards the second position in the passageway.

0027According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The structure includes a spring seat and a compression spring disposed within the passageway proximate the inlet. The spring biases the locator to move along the longitudinal axis relative to the structure. The locator includes a closure body having a first pivot and a second pivot spaced from the first pivot with a first strap and a second strap. The first strap has a first length connected to the first pivot and first end of the spring. The second strap has a second length greater than the first length connected to the second pivot and second end of the spring. The second strap cooperates with the first strap to move the face of the annulus to a side of the longitudinal axis when the locator moves from the first position towards the second position.

0028According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The structure includes a compression spring disposed in the passageway proximate the inlet. The locator includes at least one elongate member supporting a closure body. The closure body has a pivot with a strap connected to the pivot and a coil of the compression spring. The strap is movable between a first strap position where the strap is spaced from the at least one elongate member and a second strap position where the strap engages the at least one elongate member to move the face of the annulus to a first side of the longitudinal axis when the locator moves from the first position towards the second position.

0029According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The locator includes first, second, and third bearings. The first and second bearings are formed on a tubular member of the locator and the third bearing is formed on a portion of the locator proximate the inlet. The portion of the locator includes a throw journal located between first and second main journals. The first main journal is disposed within the first bearing, the second main journal is disposed within the second bearing, and the throw journal is disposed within the third beating. The portion of the locator cooperates with the tubular member and with the metallic disc annulus to move a face of a metallic disc annulus to a side of the longitudinal axis when the locator moves from the first position towards the second position.

0030According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The locator includes first, second, and third bearings. The first and second bearings are formed on a tubular member of the locator and the third bearing is formed on a portion of the locator proximate the inlet. The portion includes a throw journal located between first and second main journals. The first main journal is disposed within the first bearing, the second main journal is disposed within the second bearing, and the throw journal is in contiguous engagement with a surface of the portion facing the outlet when the locator is proximate the first position. The portion cooperates with the tubular member to move a face of a metallic disc annulus to a side of the longitudinal axis when the locator moves from the first position towards the second position.

0031According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The locator includes a support member having a plurality of apertures and a first contact area generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. The plurality of apertures perforates the support member is spaced from the longitudinal axis. The first contact area is coincident with the longitudinal axis. A bar is provided between a first end engaging the first contact area of the support member and a second end engaging a portion of the locator proximate the inlet when the locator is proximate the first position in the passageway.

0032According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The locator includes a dislodgment member and a support member generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. The support member has a contact surface, a post, and a dislodgment aperture. The support member is spaced from the longitudinal axis and the contact surface being coincident with the longitudinal axis. The support member supports the post and a portion of the locator proximate the inlet. The dislodgment member includes a base and a projection. The base is supported by the inner surface of the structure with a projection extending from the base toward the inlet. The projection is aligned with and spaced from the dislodgment aperture when the locator is proximate the first position. The projection penetrates the dislodgment aperture and displaces the post when the locator moves from the first position towards the second position in the passageway.

0033According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The locator includes a projection extending away from the longitudinal axis in the passageway so that the projection obstructs a flow of fluid on one side of the longitudinal axis in the passageway. The obstruction of flow translates a face of a metallic disc annulus to a side of the longitudinal axis via fluid flowing around the projection when the locator is moving from a first position to a second position in the passageway.

0034According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The structure includes a first fluid flow area symmetrical about the longitudinal axis proximate the inlet and a second fluid flow area asymmetrical about the longitudinal axis spaced between the first flow area and the outlet. The second fluid flow area being greater than the first fluid flow area such that when a pressure differential between the first flow area and the second flow area is provided, a metallic disc annulus is translated proximate the asymmetrical flow area.

0035According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler with a structure having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The dry sprinkler includes a locator disposed in the passageway. The structure includes a tubular outer structure surrounding a tubular member of the locator. The tubular outer structure has a projection extending toward the longitudinal axis. The projection includes a first bearing diametrically spaced apart from an aperture extending through a surface of the tubular member of the locator. The aperture has a groove extending along the longitudinal axis so that the locator is guided by the projection of the tubular outer structure along the longitudinal axis. The locator includes a closure body having a central journal located between a main journal and an impact shoe. The main journal is disposed within the first bearing, the central journal is located in a second bearing of the closure body, and the impact shoe is disposed within the aperture. The impact shoe of the closure body cooperates with the projection to move a portion of a face of a metallic disc annulus to a side of the longitudinal axis when the locator moves from the first position towards the second position in the passageway.

0036According to another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler that includes a structure, fluid deflecting structure, metallic disc annulus, and means for repositioning the metallic disc annulus. The means reposition the metallic disc annulus from a position that prevents flow to another position that prohibits flow therethrough. The structure defines a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The structure has a rated K-factor. The rated K-factor defines an expected flow of fluid in gallons per minute from the outlet divided by the square root of the pressure of the flow of fluid fed into the inlet of the passageway in pounds per square inch gauge. The fluid deflecting assembly is disposed proximate the outlet. The metallic disc annulus has a face disposed about a central axis between an inner perimeter and an outer perimeter. The outer perimeter contacts the structure so that the face occludes a flow of fluid through the passageway when the locator is proximate the first position. The means reposition the central axis of the face to be skewed to the longitudinal axis within the passageway so that a flow of fluid in gallons per minute from the outlet of the structure is at least 95 percent of the rated K-factor multiplied by the square root of the pressure of the flow of fluid fed into the inlet of the structure in pounds per square inch gauge.

0037A method of operating a dry sprinkler is also provided. The dry sprinkler has a structure extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The structure includes a rated K-factor representing a flow of fluid from the outlet of the structure in gallons per minute divided by the square root of the pressure of the fluid fed into the inlet of the structure in pounds per square inch gauge. The method can be achieved by locating a metallic disc annulus so that its central axis is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis; and verifying that a rate of water flow from the outlet is approximately equal to 95 percent of the rated K-factor of the structure multiplied by the square root of the pressure of water in psig fed to the inlet of the structure for each start pressure provided to the inlet prior to an actuation of the dry sprinkler at between approximately 0 to 175 psig.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

0038The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and constitute part of this specification, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention, and, together with the general description given above and the detailed description given below, serve to explain the features of the invention.

0039<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1D</figref> illustrate a first preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0040<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A-2D</figref> illustrate a second preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0041<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-3F</figref> illustrate a third preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0042<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4A-4E</figref> illustrate a fourth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0043<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5A-5F</figref> illustrate a fifth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0044<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6A-6F</figref> illustrate a sixth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0045<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7A-7E</figref> illustrate a seventh preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0046<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 8A-8F</figref> illustrate an eighth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0047<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9A-9E</figref> illustrate a ninth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0048<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A-10E</figref> illustrate a tenth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0049<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 11A-11E</figref> illustrate an eleventh preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0050<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 12A-12E</figref> illustrate a twelfth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0051<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 13A-13E</figref> illustrate a thirteenth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0052<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 14A-14E</figref> illustrate a fourteenth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0053<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 15A-15E</figref> illustrate a fifteenth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0054<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16A-16E</figref> illustrate a sixteenth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0055<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 17A-17I</figref> illustrate a seventeenth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0056<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 18A-18I</figref> illustrate an eighteenth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0057<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 19A-19E</figref> illustrate a nineteenth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0058<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 20A-20F</figref> illustrate a twentieth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0059<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 21A-21I</figref> illustrate a twenty-first preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0060<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 22A-22E</figref> illustrate a twenty-second preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

0061<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 23A-23I</figref> illustrate a twenty-third preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

0062As installed, a sprinkler is coupled to a piping network (not shown), which is supplied with a fire fighting fluid, e.g., a water from a pressurized supply source. The preferred embodiments include dry sprinklers that are suitable for use such as, for example, with a dry pipe system (e.g. that is the entire system is exposed to freezing temperatures in an unheated portion of a building) or a wet pipe system (e.g. the sprinkler extends into an unheated portion of a building). Pipe systems may be installed in accordance with National Fire Protection Association Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, NFPA 13 (2002 edition), which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

0063<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-23</figref> illustrate preferred embodiments of a dry sprinkler <b>10</b>. Each of the preferred embodiments is described with reference to the corresponding figure number with appropriate alphanumeric identifiers so that a description of one component with the same reference numeral in one preferred embodiment is applicable to another component with the same reference numeral in another preferred embodiment. For example, referring to any one of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-23</figref> with the alphanumeric suffix “A”, the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> includes an outer structure assembly <b>20</b>, outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>), locator <b>50</b>, trigger assembly <b>60</b>, and fluid deflecting structure <b>70</b>. The locator <b>50</b> includes a closure assembly <b>30</b> and an inner assembly <b>501</b>. The sprinkler <b>10</b> can be mounted through a holder or escutcheon <b>100</b> as shown in a perspective view of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1D</figref>. The outer structure assembly <b>20</b> defines a passageway <b>20</b><i>a </i>that extends along a longitudinal axis A-A between an inlet <b>21</b> and an outlet <b>22</b>. The longitudinal axis A-A can be a central axis of the geometric center of the outer structure with a generally constant cross-sectional area over an axial length along the longitudinal axis of the structure.

0064The casing tube <b>24</b> can be coupled to inlet fitting <b>23</b> and outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) by any suitable technique, such as, for example, thread connections, crimping, bonding, welding, or by a pin and groove. The inlet fitting <b>23</b> has an outer inlet fitting surface <b>23</b><i>a </i>and an inner inlet fitting surface <b>23</b><i>b</i>. The surface <b>23</b><i>a </i>cinctures part of the passageway <b>20</b><i>a </i>to define an entrance surface <b>38</b><i>a </i>and inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. In one preferred embodiment, the entrance surface <b>38</b><i>a </i>can include a convex profile that forms a convergently curved surface intersecting a generally planar surface of the inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b. </i>

0065According to one configuration of the inlet, the outer inlet fitting surface <b>23</b><i>a </i>has fitting threads <b>23</b><i>c </i>formed near the inlet <b>21</b>, and the inner inlet fitting surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>has first coupling threads <b>23</b><i>d </i>formed proximate the other end of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>. The fitting threads <b>23</b><i>c </i>are used for coupling the dry sprinkler to the piping network, and the inlet fitting <b>23</b> has an inlet opening <b>38</b><i>a</i>. The inlet fitting <b>23</b><i>a </i>can be provided with at least one of ¾ inch, 1 inch, 1.25 inch NPT and 7-1 ISO (Metric) threads formed thereon.

0066The inlet fitting <b>23</b> can have four different internal surface configurations proximate the entrance surface <b>38</b><i>a</i>, however, any suitable configuration may be employed. Each of the configurations of the inlet can be utilized in each of the preferred embodiments of the dry sprinkler. In the first internal surface configuration, as exemplified in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>, the entrance surface <b>38</b><i>a </i>intersects the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. The entrance surface <b>38</b><i>a </i>can be a frustoconical surface disposed about the longitudinal axis that has, in a cross-sectional view, a linear profile converging towards the longitudinal axis A-A. Alternatively, the entrance surface <b>38</b><i>a </i>can be a surface disposed about the longitudinal axis that has, in a cross-sectional view, a curved profile converging towards the longitudinal axis A-A. The sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>intersects a surface <b>38</b><i>c </i>extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A. The surface <b>38</b><i>c </i>intersects a surface <b>38</b><i>d </i>diverging away from the longitudinal axis A-A. The diverging surface <b>38</b><i>d </i>intersects a cylindrical surface <b>38</b><i>e</i>, which intersects a surface <b>38</b><i>f </i>converging towards the longitudinal axis. The surface <b>38</b><i>f </i>intersects surface <b>38</b><i>g </i>extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis. In the second internal surface configuration, as exemplified in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2A</figref>, the entrance surface <b>38</b><i>a </i>forms a bell mouth surface that intersects a sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. Sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>intersects surface <b>38</b><i>c </i>which, in this configuration, diverges away from the longitudinal axis A-A instead of extending parallel therefrom as is the case for surface <b>38</b><i>c </i>of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>. Diverging surface <b>38</b><i>c </i>intersects surface <b>38</b><i>d </i>which, in this configuration, extends generally parallel to the longitudinal axis instead of diverging away therefrom as is the case for surface <b>38</b><i>d </i>of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>.

0067The outer structure assembly <b>20</b> includes the inlet fitting <b>23</b> coupled to a casing tube <b>24</b>, and an outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) coupled to the casing tube <b>24</b>. As illustrated in a cross-sectional view of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3A</figref>, the entrance surface <b>38</b><i>a </i>roans a convex profile that intersects a sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. Similar to the second internal surface configuration, sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>intersects surface <b>38</b><i>c</i>, which, in this configuration, diverges away from the longitudinal axis A-A. Diverging surface <b>38</b><i>c</i>, however, intersects a generally planar surface <b>38</b><i>d </i>instead of a diverging or parallel surface <b>38</b><i>d </i>as in the prior two configurations. In the fourth internal surface configuration, as exemplified in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3A</figref>, the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>intersects a diverging surface <b>38</b><i>c </i>that intersects a generally planar surface <b>38</b><i>d</i>. Planar surface <b>38</b><i>d </i>intersects a generally cylindrical inner surface <b>38</b><i>e. </i>

0068Three connecting configurations of the inlet fitting <b>23</b> can be provided, however, other suitable configurations may be utilized. Each of the connecting configurations can be utilized with any of the preferred embodiments of the dry sprinkler. The first connecting configuration (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>) has a coil spring seat <b>23</b><i>f </i>extending along the longitudinal axis A-A whereas the second configuration (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>) or third configuration (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2A</figref> or <b>3</b>A) provides a coil spring seat <b>23</b><i>f </i>that encloses the coil spring over a longer axial extension along the longitudinal axis A-A. The first connecting configuration provides for a stop surface being formed by a planar surface on the threaded portion <b>23</b><i>c </i>whereas the second connecting configuration provides for a stop surface being formed by a boss portion separate from the threaded portion <b>23</b><i>c</i>. The third configuration can include a stop member formed by an end surface of a sleeve <b>42</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3A</figref>).

0069The casing tube <b>24</b> has an outer casing tube surface <b>24</b><i>a </i>and an inner casing tube surface <b>24</b><i>b</i>, both of which cincture part of the passageway <b>20</b><i>a</i>. According to the first preferred embodiment, the outer casing tube surface <b>24</b><i>a </i>has second coupling threads <b>24</b><i>c </i>formed at one end that cooperatively engage the first coupling threads <b>23</b><i>d </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>. The inner casing tube surface <b>24</b><i>b </i>has third coupling threads <b>24</b><i>d </i>formed proximate the other end of the casing tube <b>24</b>. The threads <b>24</b><i>d </i>terminate at an interior portion <b>24</b><i>e </i>of the casing tube <b>24</b>.

0070According to another configuration of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>, the casing tube <b>24</b>, and the outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>), at least one of the inlet fitting <b>23</b> and the outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) may include a radially projecting boss portion <b>28</b>. The boss portion <b>28</b> provides a stop that limits relative threaded engagement between, for example, the inlet fitting <b>23</b> and the piping network, the inlet fitting <b>23</b> and the casing tube <b>24</b>, or the outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) and the casing tube <b>24</b>.

0071According to yet another configuration of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>, the casing tube <b>24</b>, and the outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>), the outer casing tube surface <b>24</b><i>a </i>of the casing tube <b>24</b> has external threads that can be coupled to the piping network, and the inner casing tube surface <b>24</b><i>b </i>of the casing tube <b>24</b> has internal threads. The external threads on the outer casing tube surface <b>24</b><i>a </i>may be coupled to the piping network, and the internal threads on the inner casing tube surface <b>24</b><i>b </i>coupled to inlet fitting <b>23</b>, which provides the inlet opening <b>38</b><i>a</i>. Alternatively, the inlet fitting <b>23</b> and the casing tube can be formed as a unitary member such that thread portion <b>24</b><i>d </i>is not utilized. For example, the casing tube <b>24</b> can extend as a single tube from the inlet <b>21</b> to the outlet <b>22</b>.

0072Alternatives to the threaded connection to secure the inlet to the casing can also be utilized such as other mechanical coupling techniques, which can include crimping or bonding. Additionally, either of the respective inner and outer surfaces of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>, casing tube <b>24</b>, and outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) may be threaded so long as the mating part is cooperatively threaded on the opposite surface, i.e., threads on an inner surface cooperate with threads on an outer surface.

0073Three different configuration of the outlet frame can be used with the dry sprinklers of the preferred embodiments. Any suitable outlet frame, however, may be used so long as the outlet frame positions a fluid deflecting structure proximate the outlet of the dry sprinkler. A first outlet frame <b>25</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>. A second outlet frame <b>251</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>. A third outlet frame <b>252</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2A</figref>. The outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) has an outer outlet frame surface <b>25</b><i>a </i>and an inner outlet frame surface <b>25</b><i>b</i>, which surfaces cincture part of the passageway <b>20</b><i>a</i>. The outer outlet frame surface <b>25</b><i>a </i>has fourth coupling threads <b>25</b><i>c </i>formed proximate one end of the outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) that cooperatively engage the third coupling threads <b>24</b><i>d</i>. Proximate the threads <b>25</b><i>c </i>is a terminal end <b>25</b><i>d </i>that abuts a complementary surface formed on the interior of the casing <b>24</b> at interior portion <b>24</b><i>e</i>. The outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) has an opening <b>31</b> so that an annular member, such as a trigger seat <b>62</b>, can be mounted therein.

0074The other end of the outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) can include at least two frame arms <b>27</b> that are coupled to the fluid deflecting structure <b>70</b>. Preferably, the outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) and frame arms <b>27</b> are formed as a unitary member. The outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>), frame arms <b>27</b>, and fluid deflecting structure <b>70</b> can be made from rough or fine casting, and, if desired, machined.

0075The thermal trigger assembly <b>60</b> is disposed proximate to the outlet <b>22</b> of the sprinkler <b>10</b>. The thermal trigger assembly <b>60</b> includes a heat/temperature responsive assembly <b>61</b>. Preferably, the trigger is a frangible bulb <b>61</b> that is interposed between a trigger seat <b>62</b> and the fluid deflecting structure <b>70</b>. Alternatively, the trigger itself can be a solder link, or any other suitable heat responsive arrangement instead of a frangible bulb. Instead of a frangible bulb or a solder link, the heat responsive trigger may be any suitable arrangement of components that reacts to the appropriate condition(s) by actuating the dry sprinkler.

0076The trigger assembly <b>60</b> operates to: (1) maintain the inner tubular assembly proximate the first position over the first range of temperatures between about minus 60 degrees Fahrenheit to about just below a temperature rating of the trigger; and (2) permit the inner tubular assembly to move along the longitudinal axis to the second position over a second range of temperatures at or greater than the temperature rating of the trigger. The temperature rating can be a suitable temperature such as, for example, about 135, 155, 175, 200, or 286 degrees Fahrenheit and plus-or-minus (±) 20% of each of the stated values.

0077The trigger seat <b>62</b> can be an annular member with a nub portion <b>65</b> formed at one end of the trigger seat <b>62</b>. The trigger seat <b>62</b> may also include a drain port <b>63</b>. The nub portion <b>65</b> has an interior cavity <b>65</b><i>a </i>configured to receive a terminal end of the frangible bulb <b>61</b>. The trigger seat <b>62</b> has a biasing spring <b>64</b> located in a groove <b>62</b><i>a</i>. The spring <b>64</b> is connected to the frame arms <b>27</b> of the fluid deflecting structure <b>70</b>. A spacer (not shown) can be located between the second guide tube portion <b>58</b> and the trigger seat <b>62</b>. The longitudinal thickness of the spacer would be selected to increase the travel of the locator <b>50</b> as it moves from the first position to the second position. In particular, the longitudinal thickness of the spacer would be selected to establish a predetermined travel of the locator <b>50</b> before the second end <b>57</b><i>b </i>of the first guide tube portion <b>57</b> comes to rest on the outlet frame <b>25</b>.

0078The fluid deflecting structure <b>70</b> may include an adjustment screw <b>71</b> and a planar surface <b>74</b> coupled to the frame arms <b>27</b> of the outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>). The adjustment screw <b>71</b> is provided with external threads <b>73</b> that can be used to adjust an axial spacing between the trigger seat <b>62</b> and the frangible glass bulb <b>61</b>. The adjustment screw <b>71</b> also has a portion screw seat <b>71</b><i>a </i>that engages the frangible bulb <b>61</b>. Although the adjustment screw <b>71</b> and the planar surface member <b>74</b><i>a </i>have been described as separate parts, they can be formed as a unitary member.

0079A generally planar surface member <b>74</b> can be coupled to the adjustment screw <b>71</b>. The planar surface member <b>74</b> can be provided with a plurality of tines <b>74</b><i>a </i>and a plurality of slots, which are disposed in a predetermined periodic pattern about the longitudinal axis A-A so as to deflect the water flow to form an appropriate spray pattern. Instead of a planar surface <b>74</b>, other configurations could be employed to provide the desired water deflection pattern. Preferably, the member <b>74</b> includes a plurality of tines <b>74</b><i>a </i>disposed equiangularly about the longitudinal axis A-A that cooperates with deflecting arms <b>74</b><i>b </i>formed on the frame arm <b>27</b> to deflect water over a desired coverage area.

0080Although all of the preferred embodiments of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> are shown in a pendant configuration, other configurations can be used. For example, the dry sprinkler of the preferred embodiments can be configured as an upright or sidewall dry sprinkler. The dry sprinkler <b>10</b> can extend for a predetermined length L from, for example, a ceiling, a wall, or a floor of an enclosed area. The length L can be any value, and preferably, between two to fifty inches depending on the application of the sprinkler <b>10</b>.

0081To form a seal with the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>, a metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> can be used. The metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> is a single monolithic member that has a face <b>37</b> with an inner perimeter <b>37</b><i>a </i>and an outer perimeter <b>37</b><i>b </i>disposed about a central axis X-X. The central axis X-X defines an axis of the metallic disc annulus <b>36</b>, and more particularly, an axis of the face <b>37</b>. The face <b>37</b> extends continuously between the inner and outer perimeters over different positions along the central axis X-X. Alternatively, the face <b>37</b> may have a radius of curvature about the central axis X-X between the inner and outer perimeters. Preferably, the metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> is a resilient metallic member that, in its uncompressed state, may have a frustoconical configuration with a base of the frustum facing the inlet, and in a compressed state, has a generally planar configuration with respect to its central axis X-X. The metallic disc annulus can be formed by a suitable resilient material that provides for an appropriate axial force as the metallic disc annulus changes from a compressed to an uncompressed state. The resilient material for the metallic disc annulus can be, for example, stainless steel or beryllium. A coating may be provided on the metallic disc annulus such as, for example, synthetic rubber, Teflon™, or nylon.

0082The face <b>37</b> of the metallic disc annulus <b>36</b>, in conjunction with the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>, can form a seal against fluid pressure proximate the inlet face <b>38</b><i>b </i>at any start pressure from approximately zero to approximately 175 psig so that the other side of the metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> facing the outlet is generally free of fluid. In particular, a start pressure, i.e., an initial pressure present at the inlet when the dry sprinkler is actuated, can be at various start pressures. Preferably, the start pressure is at least 20 pounds per square inch (psig), and, more particular, greater than 100 psig.

0083Each of the preferred embodiments has a rated discharge coefficient, or rated K-factor, that is at least 5.6, and, can be 8.0, 11.2, 14.0, 16.8, 22.4 or 25.5. However, any suitable value for the K-factor could be provided for the dry sprinkler of the preferred embodiments. As used herein, the discharge coefficient or K-factor is quantified as a flow of fluid, preferably water, from the outlet <b>22</b> of the outer structure assembly <b>20</b>, e.g., in gallons per minute (GPM), divided by the square root of the pressure of the fluid fed into the outer structure assembly <b>20</b>, e.g., in pounds per square inch gauge (psig). The rated K-factor, or rated discharge coefficient is a mean value. The rated K-factors are expressed in standard sizes, which have an acceptable range, which is approximately five percent or less deviation from the standard value over the range of pressures. For example, a “rated” K-factor of 11.2 encompasses all measured K-factors between 11.0 and 11.5. The K-factors of the preferred embodiment may decrease as the sprinkler length L increases. For example, when L is 48 inches, the K-factor of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> can be reduced from 11.2 to approximately 10.2.

0084The K-factor allows for an approximation of flow rate to be expected from the outlet of a sprinkler based on the square root of the pressure of fluid fed into the inlet of the sprinkler. In relation to the preferred embodiments, the dry sprinkler of each of the preferred embodiments has a rated K-factor of at least 5.6. Based on the rated K-factor of the dry sprinkler of the preferred embodiments, each dry sprinkler has an arrangement of components that allows for an actual minimum flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM) through the outlet as a product of the rated K-factor and the square root of the pressure in pounds per square inch gauge (psig) of the fluid fed into an inlet of the dry sprinkler of each preferred embodiment. Specifically, each of the preferred embodiments has an actual minimum flow rate approximately equal to 95% of the magnitude of a rated K-factor times the square root of the pressure of the flow of fluid fed into the inlet of each embodiment. In order to provide the actual flow rate when the dry sprinkler is actuated, different arrangements of components—as exemplified in each of the at least twenty three preferred embodiments—are provided that position the face <b>37</b> such that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is achieved from the dry sprinkler. The arrangements provide various means for repositioning—from a first position that prevents flow to a second position that permits flow the inlet—the face <b>37</b> of the metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> to be skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A so that the actual minimum flow rate approximately equal to 95% of the magnitude of a rated K-factor times the square root of the pressure of the flow of fluid fed into the inlet of each embodiment can be achieved.

0085In a first preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A-1C</figref>, an arrangement of the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. Locator <b>50</b> includes a closure assembly <b>30</b>. The closure assembly <b>30</b> has a body <b>34</b> with a first end <b>30</b><i>a </i>and second end <b>30</b><i>b</i>. The first end <b>30</b><i>a </i>includes a top portion <b>33</b> that, preferably, is in the shape of a cone or preferably a truncated cone. The first end <b>30</b><i>a </i>preferably extends toward the second end <b>30</b><i>b</i>. A top portion <b>33</b> is spaced along the longitudinal axis A-A to the body portion <b>34</b>. The body portion <b>34</b> can be formed with a support surface <b>35</b> that, in a preferred embodiment, is generally planar. An opening <b>33</b><i>a </i>can be formed proximate the top portion <b>33</b>, which is preferably cylindrical, to allow a tool to engage the closure assembly <b>30</b> while assembling the dry sprinkler <b>10</b>. The face <b>37</b> of the metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> can be mounted proximate the top portion <b>33</b> on an annular seating surface of the closure assembly <b>30</b> so as to prevent fluid flow through the passageway <b>20</b><i>a </i>in a non-actuated or closed position of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b>.

0086To minimize the restriction upon the water flowing through outer structure assembly <b>20</b> of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b>, the closure assembly <b>30</b> can include a suitable shape that presents as small a frontal area and as small a coefficient of drag as suitable when the closure assembly <b>30</b> is rotated to the open position. Preferably, a large frontal surface area is provided by portion <b>33</b> and metallic disc annulus <b>36</b>. And preferably, by virtue of the shape of portions <b>33</b> and <b>34</b>, the body of closure assembly <b>30</b> presents a relatively smaller frontal area to the flow of water in an open position as compared to the frontal area of portion <b>33</b> and metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> of the closure assembly <b>30</b> with respect to the water flow in the closed position.

0087The closure assembly <b>30</b> is supported by contacting the support surface <b>35</b> against an inner assembly <b>501</b> of the locator <b>50</b> so that the face <b>37</b> of the metallic disc annulus <b>36</b>, in an unactuated position, engages a sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet <b>21</b>. During engagement with the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>, the face <b>37</b> of the metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> is preferably compressed against the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>such that the central axis X-X of the face is generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis A-A.

0088The inner assembly <b>501</b> of locator <b>50</b> can include a solid member of a predetermined cross-section such that fluid flow surrounds the inner assembly <b>501</b>. The inner assembly <b>501</b>, preferably, is disposed within the tubular outer structure assembly <b>20</b>, which includes the casing tube <b>24</b>. The terms “tube” or “tubular,” as they are used herein, denote an elongate member with a suitable cross-sectional shape transverse to the longitudinal axis A-A, such as, for example, circular, oval, or polygonal. Moreover, the cross-sectional profiles of the inner and outer surfaces of a tube may be different

0089The inner assembly <b>501</b> can include a multi-legged yoke <b>51</b>, a fluid tube <b>54</b>, a guide tube <b>56</b>, and the trigger assembly <b>60</b>. In the non-actuated configuration, the yoke <b>51</b> is coupled to the fluid tube <b>54</b>, and the fluid tube <b>54</b> is coupled to the guide tube <b>56</b>, and the guide tube <b>56</b> is coupled to the trigger seat <b>62</b> of the trigger assembly. The multi-legged yoke <b>51</b> can locate the closure assembly <b>30</b> with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A. The multi-legged yoke <b>51</b> has a first yoke support end <b>51</b><i>a </i>contacting the closure assembly <b>36</b> and a second yoke support end <b>51</b><i>b </i>coupled to the fluid tube <b>54</b>. The yoke <b>51</b> may optionally include a biasing member that in a preferred embodiment includes an assist spring <b>55</b> to assist movement of the yoke <b>51</b> from its unactuated position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>) to an actuated position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>).

0090The fluid tube <b>54</b> can be formed with a first cross-sectional area A₁=π(d₁/2)²transverse to the longitudinal axis A-A. Preferably, the fluid tube <b>54</b> has a generally constant diameter d₁along its length, which is believed to minimize friction loss effects over its length. The guide tube <b>56</b> can be formed by two or more portions. Preferably, a first guide tube portion <b>57</b> can be a conical portion with a first end <b>57</b><i>a </i>having a second cross-sectional area A₂=π(d₂/2)²generally equal to the first cross-sectional area A₁and a second end <b>57</b><i>b </i>having a third cross-sectional area A₃=π(d₃/2)²generally less than the first cross-sectional area A₁. A second guide tube portion <b>58</b> has a fourth cross-sectional area A₄=π(d₄/2)²generally equal to the third cross-sectional area A₃.

0091Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1C</figref>, the yoke <b>51</b> has a central axis Y-Y extending along longitudinal axis A-A. Yoke <b>51</b> has two main portions <b>511</b> and <b>512</b> symmetric about the central axis Y-Y. Each of the main portions has a first end and a second end <b>51</b><i>a </i>and <b>51</b><i>b</i>. A connecting portion <b>502</b><i>a </i>connects the main portions <b>511</b> and <b>512</b> between a first end <b>51</b><i>a </i>and a second end <b>51</b><i>b </i>of each of the main portions <b>511</b> and <b>512</b>. The main portions <b>511</b> and <b>512</b> are each provided with a pivot connection <b>502</b><i>c </i>so that the pivot connection <b>502</b><i>c </i>forms a pivot axis P-P transversely intersecting the yoke axis Y-Y. The closure assembly <b>30</b> is mounted by a pivot pin <b>32</b> to pivot connection <b>502</b><i>c </i>of the yoke <b>51</b>. The pivot pin <b>32</b> allows for rotation of the closure assembly <b>32</b> about the pivot axis P-P in the actuated or activated configuration of the dry sprinkler.

0092As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1C</figref>, the connecting portion <b>502</b><i>a </i>can be a single arcuate member connecting the main portions <b>511</b> and <b>512</b> on one side of the yoke axis Y-Y to form an elongate member having an arcuate channel extending between the ends of the main portions <b>511</b> and <b>512</b>. Yoke <b>51</b> has some freedom of movement relative to the fluid tube <b>54</b> such that the yoke axis Y-Y is movable relative to the longitudinal axis A-A.

0093By connecting a closure assembly <b>30</b> to the pivot connection <b>502</b><i>c</i>, the closure assembly <b>30</b> can pivot about the pivot axis P-P in an actuated (i.e., open) position of the dry sprinkler. Moreover, the pivot connection <b>502</b><i>c </i>allows for the compression of the face <b>37</b> into a generally planar surface against the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>so that the dry sprinkler of the preferred embodiment can be assembled. In lieu of the pivot pin <b>32</b> of the preferred embodiment, the closure assembly <b>30</b> can be pivoted by a bolt and nut, screw, two pins, a protrusion cooperating with a recess, or any suitable arrangement that allows the closure assembly <b>30</b> to pivot about pivot axis P-P and also allows for compression of the face <b>37</b> against the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>in a closed position of the dry sprinkler.

0094Due to the alignment of the closure assembly <b>30</b> with the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b> in the closed position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>), yoke <b>51</b> can have its axis Y-Y generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis A-A in the closed position. Due to the assist spring <b>55</b> acting against the asymmetric connecting portion <b>502</b><i>a</i>, yoke <b>51</b> can have its axis Y-Y offset over an offset distance <b>502</b><i>b </i>relative to the longitudinal axis A-A in the open position of the dry sprinkler (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>). The offset <b>502</b><i>b </i>can be at least 0.016 inches so that, when the dry sprinkler is actuated to an open position, the closure assembly <b>30</b> has its pivot axis P-P offset to the longitudinal axis A-A. Because the pivot axis P-P is offset to the longitudinal axis A-A, a portion of the closure assembly <b>30</b> is offset to the longitudinal axis A-A, which is believed to allow a moment force to be generated as a function of the pressure of the flowing water acting over the offset distance. This moment force is believed to assist in rotating the closure assembly <b>30</b> so that the sealing surface is located on one side of the longitudinal axis A-A when the yoke <b>51</b> is traveling towards or at the second position to permit fluid to flow through the inlet to the outlet.

0095The dry sprinkler <b>10</b> can be assembled in the following manner. The body <b>34</b> of the closure assembly and the metallic disc annulus <b>36</b>, including the face <b>37</b>, are placed in the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so that the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> contacts a sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>. Depending on whether an assist spring is desired, a biasing member in the form of a assist spring <b>55</b> is placed into the interior surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref>.

0096The second support end <b>51</b><i>d </i>of the multi-legged yoke <b>51</b> is inserted into the fluid tube <b>54</b> so that the multi-legged yoke is coupled to the fluid tube <b>54</b>. The fluid tube <b>54</b> is coupled to the guide tube <b>56</b> to form an inner assembly <b>501</b>. The casing tube <b>24</b> is coupled by threads to the inlet fitting <b>23</b> and the inner assembly <b>501</b> can be inserted through the casing tube <b>24</b>. As the inner assembly <b>501</b> is inserted through the casing tube <b>24</b>, the first yoke support end <b>51</b><i>a </i>positions the face <b>37</b> of the metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> against the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so that the components described above form a partially assembled dry sprinkler.

0097The trigger assembly <b>60</b> can be assembled separately by mounting the trigger seat <b>62</b> to the frame arm opening <b>31</b>, placing a terminal end of the frangible bulb <b>61</b> into the interior cavity <b>65</b><i>a </i>of the nub portion <b>65</b>, threading the adjustment screw <b>71</b> to the frame arms <b>27</b> so that the screw seat <b>71</b><i>a </i>engages another end of the frangible bulb <b>61</b>. The ejection spring <b>64</b> is placed in the groove <b>62</b><i>a </i>of the trigger seat <b>62</b> and connected to both frame arms (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1D</figref>).

0098The trigger assembly <b>60</b> is coupled to the partially assembled dry sprinkler by preferably threading the frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) to the casing tube <b>24</b> until the boss portion <b>28</b> and the casing tube <b>24</b> capture the holder or escutcheon <b>100</b> between these two components. The frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) is preferably threaded at a desired torque until a terminal end <b>25</b><i>d </i>of the frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) engages a complementary terminal surface <b>24</b><i>e </i>of the casing tube <b>24</b>. Next, the adjustment screw <b>71</b> is adjusted to a sufficiently high torque value that in the final assembled position, the screw <b>71</b> in conjunction with the frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) will cause the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> to be compressed against the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>and maintain all components at their intended position without damaging the frangible bulb <b>61</b>. This provides the locator <b>50</b> for the dry sprinkler <b>10</b>.

0099In operation, the face <b>37</b> separates from the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>as the closure assembly <b>30</b> translates along with the inner assembly <b>501</b> during an actuation of the sprinkler <b>10</b>. The axial force provided by the metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> assists in translating the closure assembly <b>30</b> from the inlet fitting <b>23</b>. The translating of the face <b>37</b> can also include moving the face <b>37</b> or a portion of the face <b>37</b> to a side of the longitudinal axis A-A such that a central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A. That is, in the second position of the inner assembly <b>501</b>, the central axis X-X of the sealing member is arranged so that the central axis is skewed, i.e., not co-planar with the longitudinal axis A-A. And, the translating of the sealing surface can also include moving the locator <b>50</b> for a predetermined distance within outer structure assembly <b>20</b> while retaining a portion of the locator <b>50</b> within outer structure assembly <b>20</b>, between the fluid deflecting structure <b>70</b> and the inlet <b>21</b>, which movement can be assisted by using the assist spring <b>55</b>.

0100In a second preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A-2D</figref>, a second arrangement of the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, while the closure assembly <b>30</b> is similar to that of the first embodiment, the inner assembly <b>501</b> includes a multi-legged yoke <b>51</b> that extends along a yoke axis Y-Y and coupled to a fluid tube <b>54</b> and guide tube <b>56</b>. The yoke <b>51</b> provides a mounting point for pin <b>32</b> to intersect generally transverse to the longitudinal axis A-A so that the closure assembly <b>30</b> can be mounted to the yoke <b>51</b> via legs <b>36</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2D</figref>). The yoke <b>51</b> has a first support end <b>51</b><i>a </i>coupled to the closure assembly <b>30</b> through pin <b>32</b> and a second support end <b>51</b><i>b </i>coupled to the fluid tube <b>54</b>. The first yoke support end <b>51</b><i>a </i>has at least one elongate member <b>52</b> from which extends at least two and preferably four support legs to form the second yoke support end <b>51</b><i>b</i>. The first yoke support end <b>51</b><i>a </i>is provided with eyelets <b>52</b><i>a </i>formed so that the pin <b>32</b> can be inserted there-through to mount the closure assembly <b>30</b>. The yoke <b>51</b> can be formed as a cast, machined or stamped piece. Preferably, the yoke <b>51</b> is formed by mating two stamped sheet metal members via a plurality of tack welds. Each of the stamped sheet metal members has a central portion extending along the longitudinal axis A-A and two projections diverging away from the longitudinal axis A-A at a suitable angle. When the central portion of each of the two members is joined together, four projections are formed to define four legs <b>53</b>, e.g., a quad-pod. Legs <b>53</b> of the quad-pod are coupled to the fluid tube <b>54</b> and can include a boss portion <b>51</b><i>c </i>that can be used as a seat for an assist spring <b>55</b>.

0101The assist spring <b>55</b> acts along the longitudinal axis A-A to assist the locator <b>50</b> in translating to a second or open position of the dry sprinkler. Preferably, the helper <b>55</b> is a coil spring with a first end contiguous to inner boss portion <b>23</b><i>f </i>and a second end contiguous to seat surface <b>51</b><i>c </i>of the yoke <b>51</b>.

0102A suitable contact member <b>40</b> can be a resilient member that provides a moment force. For example, a torsion spring, helical spring, or a leaf spring can be used to generate a moment force on the closure assembly <b>30</b>. Alternatively, the contact member <b>40</b> can be a suitable mechanism that provides a moment force to the closure body <b>30</b>. For example, a motion interference projection, linkage or lost motion mechanism can provide a moment force about pin <b>32</b> to rotate the closure assembly <b>30</b> about pivot axis P-P.

0103Preferably, as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref>, the contact member <b>40</b> is a torsion spring <b>420</b> with a first end <b>42</b><i>a</i>, main body <b>420</b><i>h </i>and second end <b>42</b><i>b</i>. The main body <b>420</b><i>h </i>can be entwined to pin <b>32</b>. One end <b>42</b><i>a </i>can be in engagement with a portion of the closure assembly <b>30</b>. The other end <b>42</b><i>b </i>can be coupled, e.g., fixed with a hooked end to the yoke <b>51</b> such that the two ends describe an obtuse angle of about 120 degrees in a non-actuated condition of the dry sprinkler and describe an obtuse angle of greater than 120 degrees in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b>.

0104In this preferred embodiment, the torsion spring <b>420</b> is a single wire spring wound to form main section <b>420</b><i>h </i>with at least two coils spaced apart along the pin axis P-P, and legs (forming the second end <b>42</b><i>b</i>) extending from a main section <b>420</b><i>h</i>. Also preferably, the torsion spring has a spring force of about 0.15 pound-force per degree of rotation, which is believed to be the minimum spring force needed to rotate closure assembly <b>30</b> about pivot axis P-P when a dry sprinkler of the preferred embodiments is provided with a rated K-factor of about 8.0.

0105The dry sprinkler <b>10</b> can be assembled in the following manner. The face <b>37</b> and closure body <b>30</b> are mounted to yoke <b>51</b> with the torsion spring <b>420</b> and pin <b>32</b> extending through the respective eyelets of the closure body and yoke. A biasing member in the form of an assist spring <b>55</b> is placed into the interior surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2A</figref>.

0106The second support end <b>51</b><i>b </i>of the multi-legged yoke <b>51</b> is pressed into the fluid tube <b>54</b> so that the multi-legged yoke is coupled to the fluid tube <b>54</b>. The fluid tube <b>54</b> is coupled to the guide tube <b>56</b> to form an inner assembly <b>501</b>. The casing tube <b>24</b> is coupled by threads to the inlet fitting <b>23</b> and the inner assembly <b>501</b> can be inserted through the casing tube <b>24</b>. This subassembly is placed in the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so that the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> contacts a sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so that the components described above form a partially assembled dry sprinkler.

0107The trigger assembly <b>60</b> can be assembled separately by mounting the trigger seat <b>62</b> to the frame arm opening <b>31</b>, placing a terminal end of the frangible bulb <b>61</b> into the interior cavity <b>65</b><i>a </i>of the nub portion <b>65</b>, threading the adjustment screw <b>71</b> to the frame arms <b>27</b> so that the screw seat <b>71</b><i>a </i>engages another end of the frangible bulb <b>61</b>. The ejection spring <b>64</b> is placed in the groove <b>62</b><i>a </i>of the trigger seat <b>62</b> and connected to both frame arms (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2A</figref>).

0108As described above with respect to the first embodiment, the trigger assembly <b>60</b> can be assembled together with the partially assembled dry sprinkler to form a dry sprinkler of the preferred embodiment.

0109In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated from the first position to the second position, it is believed that this spring force of the contact member, along with the inflowing force of water, rotates the closure assembly <b>30</b> about pivot axis P-P so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is achieved from the dry sprinkler.

0110In a third preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-3F</figref>, an arrangement of the locator is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, it is noted that the closure assembly <b>30</b> is different from the previous embodiments in that the closure assembly <b>30</b> is no longer pinned to a yoke. Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A and 3B</figref>, the contact member <b>40</b> is a projection <b>410</b> having a free end <b>410</b><i>a </i>that extends generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis A-A. The projection <b>410</b> can be coupled to the inner inlet fitting surface <b>23</b><i>b</i>. Further, the projection <b>410</b> can be a separate member coupled to a sleeve <b>42</b> press-fitted within the inlet fitting <b>23</b>. The projection <b>410</b> can be coupled to the sleeve <b>42</b> through a projection opening <b>43</b>. The sleeve <b>42</b> can be press-fitted in the surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>to form the contact assembly <b>40</b>. In an alternative configuration, the projection <b>410</b> is a unitary member <b>410</b><i>b </i>of the sleeve <b>42</b> that can be formed by cutting a portion of the wall surface of the sleeve <b>42</b> and bending that portion towards the longitudinal axis A-A to form a free end <b>410</b><i>c </i>(<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3E</figref>).

0111The dry sprinkler <b>10</b> of this preferred embodiment can be assembled in the following manner. The metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> is placed in the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so that the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> contacts a sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet <b>21</b> The sleeve <b>42</b> is press-fitted in the interior surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>. Depending on whether an assist spring is desired, a biasing member in the form of a assist spring <b>55</b> is placed into the interior surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3F</figref>.

0112The second support end <b>51</b><i>b </i>of the multi-legged yoke <b>51</b> is pressed into the fluid tube <b>54</b> so that the multi-legged yoke is coupled to the fluid tube <b>54</b>. The fluid tube <b>54</b> is coupled to the guide tube <b>56</b> to form an inner assembly <b>501</b>. The casing tube <b>24</b> is coupled by threads to the inlet fitting <b>23</b> and the inner assembly <b>501</b> can be inserted through the casing tube <b>24</b>. As the inner assembly <b>501</b> is inserted through the casing tube <b>24</b>, the first yoke support end <b>51</b><i>a </i>contacts the closure assembly <b>30</b> via contact with the generally planar support surface <b>35</b> to place the face <b>37</b> of the metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> against the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so that the components described above form a partially assembled dry sprinkler.

0113As described above with respect to the first embodiment, the trigger assembly <b>60</b> can be assembled together with the partially assembled dry sprinkler to form a dry sprinkler of the preferred embodiment.

0114In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated, the inner assembly <b>501</b> is translated along the longitudinal axis A-A, thereby causing the closure assembly <b>30</b> to also translate along axis A-A. The closure assembly <b>30</b>, along with the pressure of the water thereon, a rotating moment about an axis, which is coupled with contact of the support surface <b>35</b> against a free end of the projection <b>41</b>, causes the closure assembly to pivot about the free end of the projection <b>41</b>. Thus, closure assembly <b>30</b> is generally moved or flipped to one side of and along the longitudinal axis A-A such that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is achieved from the dry sprinkler.

0115Referring to the fourth preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4A-4E</figref>, yet another arrangement of the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4B and 4D</figref>, the contact member <b>40</b> is a tubular bar <b>411</b> having a contact surface <b>411</b><i>a </i>that extends generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis A-A (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4A</figref>). The tubular bar <b>411</b> can be coupled to the inner inlet fitting surface <b>23</b><i>b</i>. Further, the tubular bar <b>411</b> is a separate generally linear member coupled to a sleeve <b>42</b> such that the tubular bar <b>411</b> is offset relative to the longitudinal axis A-A. The tubular bar <b>411</b> can be coupled to the sleeve <b>42</b> through two projection openings <b>413</b> disposed on the inner surface <b>42</b><i>a </i>of the sleeve <b>42</b>. The sleeve <b>42</b> can be press-fitted in the surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>to form the contact assembly <b>40</b>. Alternatively, the openings <b>413</b> can be formed by drilling through the sleeve starting at one position on the exterior surface <b>42</b><i>b </i>through the interior surface <b>420</b><i>e </i>at the one position and through a second position on the interior surface <b>420</b><i>e </i>to the exterior surface <b>42</b><i>b</i>. A tubular stock can be inserted through the openings <b>413</b> with its ends projecting from the exterior surface <b>42</b><i>b </i>can be sheared or grinded flush with the exterior surface <b>42</b><i>b. </i>

0116The fourth preferred embodiment can be assembled in a similar manner as described above in relation to the third embodiment.

0117In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated from the first position to the second position, the closure assembly <b>30</b> is generally moved or flipped to one side of and along the longitudinal axis A-A to permit water to flow through the inlet and from the outlet at the expected flow rate.

0118Referring to the fifth preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5A-5F</figref>, yet another arrangement of the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5B and 5D</figref>, the contact member <b>40</b> is a tubular bar <b>412</b> offset relative to the longitudinal axis A-A, and the tubular bar has a contact surface <b>412</b><i>a </i>that extends generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis A-A. The tubular bar <b>412</b> can be supported by the inner inlet fitting surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>via bearings <b>412</b><i>b </i>that permit the tubular bar <b>412</b> to translate the closure assembly <b>30</b> about 90 degrees. This permits the closure assembly <b>30</b> to be moved to a side of the longitudinal axis A-A when the inner tube assembly moves from the first position towards the second position so as to permit a minimally restricted flow through the passageway between the inlet <b>21</b> and outlet <b>22</b>. Each bearings <b>412</b><i>b </i>has two surfaces aligned proximate the longitudinal axis A-A, and a third surface connects the two parallel surfaces. The connecting surface can be of a suitable surface that permits the tubular bar <b>412</b> to rotate, such as, for example, flat, arcuate, V-shaped or diagonal. In a preferred embodiment, the connecting surface is arcuate. Preferably, the bearings <b>412</b><i>b </i>Are U-shaped openings formed on a sleeve <b>42</b>. The bearings <b>412</b><i>b </i>are positioned offset relative to the longitudinal axis A-A. In particular, the bearings <b>412</b><i>b </i>are configured such that each bearing is larger than the diameter of the tubular bar <b>412</b>. Each of the bearings <b>412</b><i>b </i>has a radiused surface <b>412</b><i>c </i>that extends towards the inlet <b>21</b> so as to provide for an open gap <b>412</b><i>d</i>. The open gaps <b>412</b><i>d </i>allow the tubular bar <b>412</b> to drop into the bearings <b>43</b> while the radiused surfaces <b>412</b><i>c </i>allow the tubular bar <b>412</b> to rotate about its axis B-B. Preferably, the sleeve <b>42</b> can be press-fitted in the surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>such that the tubular bar <b>412</b> and bearings <b>412</b><i>b </i>form the contact assembly <b>40</b>.

0119The dry sprinkler of this preferred embodiment can be assembled by placing the closure body <b>30</b> into the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so that the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> contacts the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. The length of the each bearing surface along the longitudinal axis A-A allows relative freedom of movement so that the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> can be compressed against the sealing surface <b>37</b> and a suitable seal can be provided therein. The sleeve <b>42</b> is pressed in with the bearings surface <b>412</b><i>c </i>aligned with the ends of the bar <b>412</b>. Thereafter, the assist spring <b>55</b> is inserted, if desired, along with yoke <b>51</b>, fluid tube <b>54</b>, guide tube <b>56</b>, flame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) and trigger assembly <b>60</b> in a similar manner of assembly as described with reference to the second preferred embodiment.

0120In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated from the first position to the second position, the closure assembly <b>30</b> is initially dropped into bearings <b>412</b><i>b</i>. As the shaft <b>412</b> impacts the bearings <b>412</b><i>b</i>, closure assembly <b>30</b> is rotated so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A to permit water to flow through the inlet and from the outlet at the expected flow rate.

0121Referring to the sixth preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6A-6F</figref>, a different configuration of the components of the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler, <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. The closure assembly <b>30</b> in this embodiment has first portion <b>33</b>, second portion <b>34</b> with a support surface <b>35</b> that, in a preferred embodiment, is generally planar. A boss <b>413</b><i>f </i>can be formed at a circumferential portion of the second portion <b>34</b>. The boss <b>413</b><i>f </i>is provided with an opening <b>413</b><i>e </i>that extends through the boss <b>413</b><i>f </i>along an axis generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis A-A. With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6B and 6D</figref>, the contact member <b>40</b> includes a circumferential groove <b>413</b><i>a </i>formed on an inner surface of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>. The groove <b>413</b><i>a </i>allows a C-clip <b>413</b><i>b </i>to be retained in the groove <b>413</b><i>a</i>. The C-clip <b>413</b><i>b </i>preferably has two legs <b>413</b><i>c </i>and <b>413</b><i>d </i>extending in an arcuate fashion about the longitudinal axis A-A so that the terminal ends of the legs face each other, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>. The clip <b>413</b><i>b </i>is retained in the groove <b>413</b><i>a </i>via the legs <b>413</b><i>c </i>and <b>413</b><i>d</i>. The C-clip <b>413</b><i>b </i>allows the closure assembly <b>30</b> to be loosely connected to the C-clip <b>413</b><i>b </i>via opening <b>413</b><i>e </i>formed through boss <b>413</b><i>f </i>of the closure assembly <b>30</b> so as to provide two degrees of freedom to the closure assembly <b>30</b> (i.e., sliding and rotating about the clip) so that the face <b>37</b> can be aligned and the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> is compressed against sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. The opening <b>413</b><i>e </i>has an internal diameter greater than the outer dimension of the C-clip <b>413</b><i>b </i>so that the opening <b>413</b><i>e </i>preferably does not contact the outer surface of the C-clip <b>413</b><i>b </i>when the closure assembly <b>30</b> is installed in the dry sprinkler <b>10</b>.

0122The dry sprinkler <b>10</b> of this embodiment can be assembled as described above in relation to the second preferred embodiment and further in the following manner with regard to the C-clip <b>413</b><i>b</i>. The C-clip <b>413</b><i>b </i>is inserted through the opening <b>413</b><i>e </i>of the closure assembly <b>30</b>, which opening <b>413</b><i>e </i>has a larger inner diameter than the outer diameter of the C-clip to allow relative movement (i.e., two-degrees of freedom) therebetween so that the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> can be compressed against sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. The C-clip <b>413</b><i>b </i>is compressed radially with respect the longitudinal axis A-A so that each leg <b>413</b><i>c</i>, <b>413</b><i>d </i>can be mounted in the groove <b>413</b><i>a</i>. Depending on whether an assist spring is desired, a biasing member in the form of a assist spring <b>55</b> is thereafter placed into the interior surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6F</figref>. Thus, a partially assembled dry sprinkler is provided at this point. Thereafter, the assist spring <b>55</b> is inserted, if desired, along with yoke <b>51</b>, fluid tube <b>54</b>, guide tube <b>56</b>, frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) and trigger assembly <b>60</b> in a similar manner of assembly as described with reference to the second preferred embodiment.

0123In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated from the first position to the second position, the clip <b>413</b><i>b </i>provides a pivot axis B-B offset from the longitudinal axis A-A for the boss <b>413</b><i>f </i>so that the closure assembly <b>30</b> can generally rotate about this pivot axis B-B (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6E</figref>). By virtue of the pivot axis B-B, the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is achieved from the dry sprinkler to permit water to flow through, the inlet and from the outlet at the expected flow rate.

0124Referring to the seventh preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7A-7E</figref>, another configuration of the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7D</figref>, the first yoke support end <b>51</b><i>a </i>of yoke <b>51</b> (of the inner assembly <b>501</b>) has a generally planar surface <b>51</b><i>c </i>extending preferably in an oblique direction relative to the longitudinal axis A-A such that the planar surface <b>51</b><i>c </i>intersects another generally planar surface <b>49</b><i>b </i>to form a generally linear edge <b>51</b><i>e</i>. The linear edge <b>51</b><i>e </i>extends preferably along an axis B-B generally orthogonal and offset to the longitudinal, axis A-A. The linear edge <b>51</b><i>e </i>contiguously engages a generally planar surface <b>35</b> of the closure assembly <b>30</b>. Preferably, the linear edge <b>51</b><i>e </i>is formed by two co-extensive planar surfaces <b>51</b><i>c </i>and <b>49</b><i>b</i>. Each of the members <b>52</b><i>a </i>and <b>52</b><i>b </i>has central portion and two projections at appropriate angles that diverge from the longitudinal axis A-A.

0125In this preferred embodiment, the liner edge <b>51</b><i>e </i>should contact the support surface <b>35</b> of the closure assembly <b>30</b> at a location of about 0.05 inches radially offset relative to the longitudinal axis A-A. A ratio of the distance of the outer perimeter of the face <b>37</b> relative to the radially offset distance can be established so that the proportion of the offset should be maintained with various rated K-factors of the preferred embodiments. Preferably, the ratio of the diameter of the face <b>37</b> relative to the offset distance is about 15:1 such that a proportional offset distance is maintained should the dry sprinkler be enlarged in size. The engagement of the linear edge <b>51</b><i>e </i>places the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> against the inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>. Because the face <b>37</b> is essentially fixed with respect to the inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>, any side loading being imposed by the linear edge <b>51</b><i>e </i>is negligible when the face <b>37</b> is compressed against inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>in a fully assembled state. As mounted in the first position of the inner assembly <b>501</b> in the dry sprinkler <b>10</b>, the linear edge <b>51</b><i>e </i>forms a line contact support with the generally planar surface <b>35</b> of the closure assembly <b>30</b>.

0126The dry sprinkler of this preferred embodiment can be assembled by placing the closure body <b>30</b> into the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so that the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> contacts the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. Thereafter, the assist spring <b>55</b> is inserted, if desired, along with yoke <b>51</b>, fluid tube <b>54</b>, guide tube <b>56</b>, frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) and trigger assembly <b>60</b> in a similar manner of assembly as described with reference to the second preferred embodiment.

0127In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated from the first position to the second position, the closure assembly <b>30</b> is forced to translate due to and the flow of water impacting against the closure assembly <b>30</b> on the linear edge <b>51</b><i>e</i>. That is, due to water flowing against the surface of the closure assembly, the closure assembly <b>30</b> is unbalanced the linear edge <b>51</b><i>e</i>. Thus, the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is achieved from the dry sprinkler as the locator <b>50</b> is moved from proximate the first position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7A</figref>) to the second position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7C</figref>).

0128Referring to the eighth preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 8A-8F</figref>, another arrangement of components of the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 8A and 8C</figref>, the closure assembly <b>30</b> includes a body <b>34</b> with a top portion <b>33</b>. The face <b>37</b> is preferably fitted to the top portion <b>33</b> in a slide-fitted—as opposed to a press-fitted—configuration so that the face <b>37</b> is separable from the top portion <b>33</b>, and in contrast to previous preferred embodiments, the closure assembly <b>30</b> is not pinned to the inner assembly <b>501</b> in this embodiment. A suitable contact member, such as, for example, a boss portion, projection or pin can be provided in the passageway <b>20</b><i>a </i>so that the contact member can contact the closure assembly <b>30</b> during actuation of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b>. Preferably, as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8D</figref>, the contact member is a projection <b>41</b> having a free end <b>41</b><i>a </i>that extends generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis A-A. The projection <b>41</b> can be coupled to the inner inlet fitting surface <b>23</b><i>b</i>. In a preferred embodiment, the projection <b>41</b> is a separate member coupled to the sleeve <b>42</b>.

0129Although the yoke <b>51</b> was described above, an explanation of the additional details of the yoke <b>51</b> is appropriate here. With respect to this embodiment, the first yoke support end <b>51</b><i>a </i>has a generally arcuate surface and has at least one elongate member <b>52</b> that is coupled to at least two support legs <b>53</b> that provide the second yoke support end <b>51</b><i>b</i>. The first yoke end <b>51</b><i>a </i>can contact the generally planar surface <b>35</b> of the closure assembly <b>30</b>. The second yoke end <b>51</b><i>b </i>can be coupled to a portion of the inner assembly <b>501</b>, and, preferably, the water tube <b>24</b>. Each of the members <b>52</b><i>a </i>and <b>52</b><i>b </i>has central portion and two projections at appropriate angles that diverge from the longitudinal axis A-A. Preferably, a projection of one stamped metal member is adjacent the projection of another sheet member such that an obtuse angle is formed there between as viewed from the inlet <b>21</b>. The projections of respective stamped metal members <b>52</b><i>a </i>and <b>52</b><i>b </i>are configured such that they form four sectors about the longitudinal axis A-A, where a pair of diametrical sectors of generally equal first arcuate distance is interposed by a pair of diametrical sectors of generally equal second arcuate distance, and where the first arcuate distance is greater than the second. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8F</figref>, a first arcuate sector A has an arcuate distance greater than the second arcuate section B, a third arcuate section C diametrically opposite the first arcuate sector A has generally the same arcuate distance as the first arcuate sector A, and a fourth arcuate sector D diametrically opposite the second arcuate sector B has generally the same arcuate distance as the second arcuate sector B. This arrangement of arcuate sectors may be sized to permit the closure body <b>30</b> to fall through the yoke <b>51</b> and out of the dry sprinkler such that substantially all other components of the locator remain with the dry sprinkler.

0130The dry sprinkler of this preferred embodiment can be assembled by placing the closure body <b>30</b> into the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so that the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> contacts the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. Thereafter, the assist spring <b>55</b> is inserted, if desired, along with yoke <b>51</b>, fluid tube <b>54</b>, guide tube <b>56</b>, frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) and trigger assembly <b>60</b> in a similar manner of assembly as described with reference to the second preferred embodiment.

0131In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated along axis A-A, the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> contacts the free end <b>41</b><i>a </i>of projection <b>41</b>. This contact between the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> and the projection <b>41</b> causes the face <b>37</b> to separate from the body portion <b>34</b> of the closure assembly <b>30</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8E</figref> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed from the longitudinal axis A-A. Due to the position of the projection member <b>41</b> over one of the larger arcuate sectors A and C defined by the multi-legged yoke <b>51</b>, shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8F</figref>, the body portion <b>34</b> of the closure assembly may fall through one of the two arcuate sectors A and C, and through the inner assembly <b>501</b> as the locator <b>50</b> is moved from proximate the first position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8A</figref>) to the second position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8C</figref>). It is noted that the inner assembly <b>501</b> is moved for a predetermined distance within the structure <b>20</b>, and substantially all portions of the inner assembly <b>501</b> are retained within the outer perimeter of the structure <b>20</b>.

0132Referring to the ninth preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9A-9E</figref>, another arrangement of components for the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9D</figref>, a closure assembly <b>30</b> with an extension <b>400</b> is provided. The extension <b>400</b> has a radius of curvature that can be formed on the support surface <b>35</b> and positioned anywhere on the support surface <b>35</b>. In a preferred embodiment, the extension <b>400</b> in the form of a spheroidal member <b>400</b> can be formed on the support surface <b>35</b> proximate the longitudinal axis A-A. The closure assembly <b>30</b> is supported by engagement of the extension <b>400</b> against a generally planar or arcuate surface <b>551</b><i>a </i>(<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9C</figref>) or <b>551</b><i>b </i>(<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9D</figref>) of yoke <b>51</b> so that the face <b>37</b>, in an unactuated position, is preferably compressed against the inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. Preferably, the spheroidal member <b>400</b> has a diameter that is about ¼ of the outer perimeter of the face <b>37</b> in its fully compressed form.

0133The dry sprinkler of this preferred embodiment can be assembled by placing the closure body <b>30</b> into the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so that the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> contacts the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. Thereafter, the assist spring <b>55</b> is inserted, if desired, along with yoke <b>51</b>, fluid tube <b>54</b>, guide tube <b>56</b>, frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) and trigger assembly <b>60</b> in a similar manner of assembly as described with reference to the second preferred embodiment.

0134In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated along axis A-A, the face <b>37</b> separates from the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. Once the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> is no longer in contact with inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>, the closure assembly <b>30</b> is free to roll on either surface <b>551</b><i>a </i>or <b>551</b><i>b </i>of yoke support <b>51</b><i>a </i>about a moving center of rotation such that the closure assembly <b>30</b> may fall off the yoke support <b>51</b><i>a </i>into, for example, arcuate sector A or C (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9D</figref>). Due to the preferred configuration of extension <b>400</b>, the extension <b>400</b> allows the face <b>37</b> to be skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is provided by the dry sprinkler.

0135Referring to the tenth preferred embodiment as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A-10E</figref>, another configuration of the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, a closure assembly <b>30</b> with an extended top portion <b>330</b> is provided. The top portion <b>330</b> can be in the shape of a cone or preferably right angle cylinder. The first end <b>30</b><i>a </i>preferably extends toward the second end <b>30</b><i>b</i>. The body portion <b>34</b> can be formed with a support surface <b>35</b> that, in a preferred embodiment, is generally planar. The body portion <b>34</b> can also support a metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> such that the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> of the metallic disc annulus can form a seal with the inlet <b>21</b>. The body portion <b>34</b> of closure assembly <b>30</b> is formed such that a majority of the mass of the closure assembly <b>30</b> is preferably located proximate top portion <b>330</b> proximate the first end <b>30</b><i>a </i>between the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>and the inlet <b>21</b>. This allows for the center of gravity <b>330</b><i>a </i>of the closure assembly <b>30</b> to be spaced at a predetermined distance from the yoke <b>51</b> and generally coincident along the longitudinal axis A-A.

0136The dry sprinkler of this preferred embodiment can be assembled by placing the closure body <b>30</b> into the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so that the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> contacts the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. Thereafter, the assist spring <b>55</b> is inserted, if desired, along with yoke <b>51</b>, fluid tube <b>54</b>, guide tube <b>56</b>, frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) and trigger assembly <b>60</b> a similar manner of assembly as described with reference to the second preferred embodiment.

0137In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated from the first position to the second position, the face <b>37</b> separates from the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. Because the center of gravity <b>331</b> located proximate the top portion <b>330</b>, the center of gravity is believed to cause the closure assembly to roll on the generally arcuate surface of the elongate member <b>52</b> such that the closure assembly falls off the yoke support <b>51</b><i>a</i>. Thus, closure assembly <b>30</b> is generally moved to one side of and along the longitudinal axis A-A as the locator <b>50</b> is moved from proximate the first position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10A</figref>) to the second position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10C</figref>) so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis and the expected flow rate is provided by the dry sprinkler.

0138Referring to the eleventh preferred embodiment as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 11A-11E</figref>, another arrangement of components of the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, the locator <b>50</b> includes a closure assembly <b>30</b> with an extended top portion <b>332</b> and a recessed chamber <b>332</b><i>a</i>. The closure assembly <b>30</b> includes a body <b>34</b> with a first end <b>30</b><i>a </i>and second end <b>30</b><i>b</i>. The first end <b>30</b><i>a </i>includes a top portion <b>332</b> that can be in the shape of a cone or, preferably, a right angle cylinder. The first end <b>30</b><i>a </i>preferably extends toward the second end <b>30</b><i>b</i>. The body portion <b>34</b> can be formed with a support surface <b>35</b> that, in a preferred embodiment, is generally planar. A recessed chamber <b>332</b><i>a </i>can be formed proximate the top portion <b>332</b>. The recessed chamber <b>332</b><i>a </i>can be disposed symmetric to the longitudinal axis A-A. The chamber <b>332</b><i>a</i>, however, is disposed in an offset manner relative to the longitudinal axis A-A. The metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> is disposed on the closure assembly <b>30</b> so that the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> forms a seal with respect to the inlet <b>21</b>. The face <b>37</b> is configured so as to surround the top portion <b>332</b>. The body of closure assembly <b>30</b> is formed such that a majority of the mass of the closure assembly <b>30</b> is preferably located proximate top portion <b>332</b> proximate the first end <b>30</b><i>a </i>between the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>and the inlet <b>21</b> and offset to the longitudinal axis A-A. This allows for the center of gravity <b>332</b><i>b </i>of the closure assembly <b>30</b> to be spaced at a predetermined distance from the yoke <b>51</b> and offset along the longitudinal axis A-A.

0139The dry sprinkler of the preferred embodiment can be assembled in a similar manner as the previous embodiment.

0140In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated from the first position to the second position, the face <b>37</b> separates from the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. Because the center of gravity <b>332</b><i>b </i>located proximate the top portion <b>332</b>, the center of gravity <b>332</b><i>b </i>is believed to cause the closure assembly <b>30</b> to roll on the generally arcuate surface <b>51</b><i>a </i>of yoke <b>51</b> such that the closure assembly may fall off the yoke surface <b>51</b><i>a</i>. Thus, closure assembly <b>30</b> is generally moved to one side of and along the longitudinal axis A-A as the locator <b>50</b> is moved from proximate the first position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11A</figref>.) for the second position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11C</figref>) <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry spindler.

0141Referring to the twelfth preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 12A-12E</figref>, another arrangement of components of a locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, a closure assembly <b>30</b> with a tether is provided with a suitable tether assembly <b>414</b><i>a</i>, such as, for example, a cord, a wire, a chain, or a link. The tether assembly <b>414</b><i>a </i>can provide a restraining force that locates the closure assembly <b>30</b> on one side of the longitudinal axis A-A.

0142Preferably, as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 12A-12D</figref>, the tether assembly <b>414</b><i>a </i>includes a cord <b>414</b><i>b </i>connected to a tether mount <b>414</b><i>c </i>by a first attachment device <b>414</b><i>d</i>. The cord <b>414</b><i>b </i>is also connected to the closure assembly <b>30</b> by a second attachment device <b>414</b><i>e</i>. The second attachment device <b>414</b><i>e </i>is located proximate the peripheral edge of the outlet facing surface <b>34</b><i>a </i>of the closure assembly <b>30</b> so that the second attachment device <b>414</b><i>e </i>is offset from the longitudinal axis A-A. The attachment devices <b>414</b><i>d</i>, <b>414</b><i>e </i>can be solder joints, rivets, or, preferably, screws. The tether mount <b>414</b><i>d </i>or <b>414</b><i>e </i>can be secured to the respective component by a press fit, an adhesive, a tack weld, or other suitable securement.

0143The dry sprinkler <b>10</b> of this embodiment can be assembled as described above in relation to the third preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler and further in the following manner with regard to the tether assembly <b>414</b><i>a</i>. The closure assembly <b>30</b> is placed in the inlet <b>21</b> so that the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> contacts a sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet <b>21</b>. A tether mount <b>414</b><i>d </i>is then connected to the inlet. The cord <b>414</b><i>b </i>is then coupled to closure assembly <b>30</b> at surface <b>34</b><i>a </i>by the second attachment device <b>414</b><i>e</i>. If an assist spring is desired, a biasing member <b>55</b>, in the form of a coil spring, is thereafter placed into the interior surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12E</figref>. Thus, a partially assembled dry sprinkler is provided <b>51</b> and trigger assembly <b>60</b> can be mounted to the partially assembled dry sprinkler to provide a complete dry sprinkler as described earlier.

0144In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated from the first position to the second position, the face <b>37</b> separates from the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>and the closure assembly <b>30</b> begins to fall towards the outlet. However, the length of the cord <b>414</b><i>b </i>is less than the distance between the first position and the second position of the inner assembly <b>501</b> along the longitudinal axis A-A. As the closure assembly <b>30</b> moves along axis A-A, any slack in the cord <b>414</b><i>b </i>is taken up and the closure assembly <b>30</b> also begins to move along the arcuate surface <b>52</b><i>a </i>of the elongate member <b>52</b>. Due in part to the restraining force of the cord <b>414</b><i>a </i>on the closure assembly <b>30</b> and the relative movement between the closure assembly <b>30</b> and the elongate member <b>52</b>, the closure assembly <b>30</b> is sufficiently tipped to cause the center of mass of the closure assembly <b>30</b> to be offset relative to the longitudinal axis A-A, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>. Thus, closure assembly <b>30</b> is generally moved to be on one side of and along the longitudinal axis A-A as the inner assembly <b>501</b> is moved from proximate the first position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12A</figref>) to the second position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12C</figref>) so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed from the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rated is provided by the dry sprinkler.

0145Referring to the thirteenth preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 13A-13E</figref>, another arrangement of components for the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 13A</figref>, <b>13</b>C, and <b>13</b>D, closure assembly <b>30</b> has a first end <b>30</b><i>a </i>and second end <b>30</b><i>b</i>. A first portion <b>33</b> is adjacent a second portion <b>34</b>. The second portion <b>34</b> is formed with a surface <b>34</b><i>a </i>facing the outlet end <b>22</b> and a beveled surface <b>34</b><i>b </i>abutting the peripheral edge of the outlet facing surface <b>34</b><i>a</i>. A spring retainer <b>34</b><i>c </i>is located proximate the peripheral edge of the outlet facing surface <b>34</b><i>a </i>so that the spring retainer <b>34</b><i>c </i>is offset from the longitudinal axis A-A. The spring retainer <b>34</b><i>c </i>can be a recess, as shown in the preferred embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 13A-13E</figref>. The spring retainer <b>34</b><i>c </i>allows one end <b>416</b><i>a </i>of a compression spring <b>416</b> to be disposed therein. Preferably, the compression spring <b>416</b> is a coil spring. A first end <b>416</b><i>a </i>of the compression spring <b>416</b> is supported on a yoke <b>51</b> of the inner assembly <b>501</b> via a post <b>59</b>. A first end <b>416</b><i>a </i>of the compression spring <b>416</b> is in releasable engagement with the spring retainer <b>34</b><i>c </i>provided on the body of the closure assembly <b>30</b>. Also preferably, the compression spring <b>416</b> has a spring force of approximately 5 to 8 pounds force.

0146The dry sprinkler <b>10</b> of this embodiment can be assembled as described above in relation to the third preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler and further in the following manner with regard to the compression spring <b>416</b>. The surface <b>36</b>, which includes the first portion <b>33</b> and the face <b>37</b>, is placed in the inlet <b>21</b> so that the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> contacts a sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet <b>21</b>. Depending on whether an assist spring is desired, a spring spacer or sleeve <b>42</b> is inserted in the inlet fitting <b>23</b> and a biasing member <b>55</b>, in the form of a coil spring, is thereafter placed into the interior surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13E</figref>.

0147The second support end <b>51</b><i>b </i>of the multi-legged yoke <b>51</b> is pressed into the fluid tube <b>54</b> so that the multi-legged yoke <b>51</b> is coupled to the fluid tube <b>54</b>. The second end <b>418</b><i>b </i>of compression spring <b>416</b> is then coupled to the multi-legged yoke <b>51</b> on post <b>59</b> so that the compression spring <b>416</b> rests on boss <b>53</b><i>a</i>. The fluid tube <b>54</b> is coupled to the guide tube <b>56</b> to form an inner assembly <b>501</b>. The casing tube <b>24</b> is coupled by threads to the inlet fitting <b>23</b> and the inner assembly <b>501</b> can be inserted through the casing tube <b>24</b>. As the inner assembly <b>501</b> is inserted through the casing tube <b>24</b>, the first yoke support end <b>51</b><i>a </i>supports the closure assembly <b>30</b> to place the resilient face <b>37</b> of the metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> against the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>. The first end <b>416</b><i>a </i>of compression spring <b>416</b> contacts the closure assembly <b>30</b> at spring retainer <b>34</b><i>c</i>. Thus, a partially assembled dry sprinkler is provided at this point Thereafter, the yoke <b>51</b> and trigger assembly <b>60</b> can be mounted to the partially assembled dry sprinkler to provide a complete dry sprinkler.

0148In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated from the first position to the second position, the compression spring <b>416</b> expands along the post <b>59</b> and the first end <b>416</b><i>a </i>of the compression spring <b>416</b> pushes on the body of the closure assembly <b>30</b> along the longitudinal axis A-A. The closure assembly <b>30</b> is therefore sufficiently tipped to one side of the longitudinal axis A-A to cause the center of mass of the closure assembly <b>30</b> to be offset relative to the longitudinal axis A-A, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13C</figref>, due in part by the spring force provided by the compression spring <b>416</b>. Thus, closure assembly <b>30</b> is generally pushed by the compression spring <b>416</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is provided by the dry sprinkler.

0149Referring to the fourteenth preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 14A-14E</figref>, another arrangement of components for the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 14A</figref>, <b>14</b>C, and <b>14</b>D, closure assembly <b>30</b> includes a body with a first end <b>30</b><i>a </i>and second end <b>30</b><i>b</i>. A first portion <b>33</b> is adjacent a second portion <b>34</b>. The second portion <b>34</b> is formed with a surface <b>34</b><i>a </i>facing the outlet end <b>22</b> and a beveled surface <b>34</b><i>b </i>abutting the peripheral edge of the outlet facing surface <b>34</b><i>a</i>. A spring retainer <b>34</b><i>c </i>is located proximate the peripheral edge of the outlet facing surface <b>34</b><i>a </i>so that the spring retainer <b>34</b><i>c </i>is offset from the longitudinal axis A-A. The tension spring <b>418</b> is a coil spring. A second end <b>418</b><i>b </i>of the tension spring <b>418</b> is connected to a yoke <b>51</b> of the inner assembly <b>501</b>. A first end <b>418</b><i>a </i>of the tension spring <b>418</b> is connected to the body of the closure assembly <b>30</b>. Also preferably, the tension spring <b>418</b> has a spring force of approximately 5 to 8 pounds force, which is believed to be the minimum spring force required for operation of the preferred embodiment.

0150The tension spring <b>418</b> can be connected to the closure member <b>30</b> and the yoke <b>51</b> by screws, rivets, hook ends, or other suitable securement. Preferably, the second end <b>418</b><i>b </i>of the tension spring <b>418</b> includes a hook that passes through a hole <b>53</b><i>a </i>provided in the yoke and a screw <b>43</b> can connect the first end <b>418</b><i>a </i>of the tension spring <b>418</b> to the body of the closure assembly <b>30</b>. The spring retainer <b>34</b><i>c </i>can be a screw that extends through a loop provided at the second end <b>418</b><i>b </i>of the tension spring <b>418</b> and is fastened to the body of the closure assembly <b>30</b> proximate the peripheral edge of the outlet facing surface <b>34</b><i>a</i>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14D</figref>.

0151The dry sprinkler <b>10</b> of this embodiment can be assembled as described above in relation to the thirteenth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler and further in the following manner with regard to the tension spring <b>418</b>. The surface <b>36</b>, which includes the first portion <b>33</b> and the face <b>37</b>, is placed in the inlet <b>21</b> so that the resilient sealing member contacts a sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet <b>21</b>. Depending on whether an assist spring is desired, a spring spacer <b>28</b> is inserted in the inlet fitting <b>23</b> and a biasing member <b>55</b>, in the form of a coil spring, is thereafter placed into the interior surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>.

0152The second support end <b>51</b><i>b </i>of the multi-legged yoke <b>51</b> is pressed into the fluid tube <b>54</b> so that the multi-legged yoke <b>51</b> is coupled to the fluid tube <b>54</b>. The second end <b>418</b><i>b </i>of tension spring <b>418</b> is then coupled to the multi-legged yoke <b>51</b>. The fluid tube <b>54</b> is coupled to the guide tube <b>56</b> to form the inner assembly <b>501</b>. The casing tube <b>24</b> can be coupled by threads to the inlet fitting <b>23</b> and the inner assembly <b>501</b> can be inserted through the casing tube <b>24</b>. As the inner assembly <b>501</b> is inserted through the casing tube <b>24</b>, the first yoke support end <b>51</b><i>a </i>supports the closure assembly <b>30</b> to place the resilient face <b>37</b> of the metallic disc annulus <b>36</b> against the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>. The first end <b>418</b><i>a </i>of tension spring <b>418</b> is then attached to surface <b>34</b><i>a</i>, at spring retainer <b>34</b><i>c</i>, preferably with a screw <b>53</b>. Thus, a partially assembled dry sprinkler is provided at this point. Thereafter, the yoke <b>51</b> and trigger assembly <b>60</b> can be mounted to the partially assembled dry sprinkler to provide a complete dry sprinkler as described earlier.

0153In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated from the first position to the second position, the tension spring <b>418</b> contracts along the longitudinal axis A-A and the first end <b>418</b><i>a </i>of the tension spring <b>418</b> pulls on the body of the closure assembly <b>30</b> along the longitudinal axis A-A. Further contraction by the tension spring <b>418</b> moves the closure assembly <b>30</b> along the arcuate surface <b>52</b><i>a </i>of the elongate member <b>52</b>. Thereafter, the closure assembly <b>30</b> is sufficiently tipped to one side of the longitudinal axis A-A to cause the center of mass of the closure assembly <b>30</b> to be offset relative to the longitudinal axis A-A, as shown in Fiore 13C, due in part by the spring force provided by the tension spring <b>418</b>. Thus, closure assembly <b>30</b> is generally pulled by the tension spring <b>418</b> to be one side of and along the longitudinal axis A-A so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed from the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is provided by the dry

0154Referring to the fifteenth preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 15A-15E</figref>, another arrangement of components for the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, the closure assembly <b>30</b> includes a first portion <b>33</b> is adjacent a second portion <b>34</b>. The second portion <b>34</b> is formed with a surface <b>34</b><i>a </i>facing the outlet end <b>22</b> and a beveled surface <b>34</b><i>b </i>abutting the peripheral edge of the outlet facing surface <b>34</b><i>a</i>. A first pivot <b>420</b><i>a </i>and a second pivot <b>420</b><i>b </i>extend from the outlet facing surface <b>34</b><i>a</i>. The first pivot <b>420</b><i>a </i>and the second pivot <b>420</b><i>b </i>each have a pivot axis that is transverse to the longitudinal axis A-A. Preferably, the transverse axes of the first pivot <b>420</b><i>a </i>and the second pivot <b>420</b><i>b </i>are approximately equidistantly spaced from the longitudinal axis A-A when the closure assembly <b>30</b> is in the non-actuated position. The closure assembly <b>30</b> is also connected to a strap assembly <b>422</b> that includes a first strap <b>422</b><i>a </i>and a second strap <b>424</b><i>a</i>. The second strap <b>424</b><i>a </i>is longer than the first strap <b>422</b><i>a</i>. First ends <b>422</b><i>b</i>, <b>424</b><i>b </i>of the straps <b>422</b><i>a</i>, <b>424</b><i>a</i>, respectively, are connected to the closure assembly <b>30</b>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15D</figref>. Second ends <b>422</b><i>c</i>, <b>424</b><i>c </i>of the straps <b>422</b><i>a</i>, <b>424</b><i>a</i>, respectively, are connected to a biasing member <b>55</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15D</figref>). The first strap <b>422</b><i>a </i>and the second strap <b>424</b><i>a </i>cooperate to move the closure assembly <b>30</b> to the side of the longitudinal axis A-A and rotated 90 degrees to minimize the flow area, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15C</figref>. The first strap <b>422</b><i>a </i>and the second strap <b>424</b><i>a </i>can be made from a plastic material, a metallic material or other material that will provide sufficient rigidity so that the straps <b>422</b><i>a </i>and <b>424</b><i>a</i>, at most, minimally flexes when the closure assembly <b>30</b> is in either of the closed position or (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15A</figref>) the open position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15C</figref>). As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 15A</figref>, <b>15</b>D and <b>15</b>E, each ends of the straps <b>422</b><i>a</i>, <b>424</b><i>a </i>includes a loop for connecting the straps to the closure assembly <b>30</b> and to the biasing member <b>55</b>. The loops of the first ends <b>422</b><i>b</i>, <b>424</b><i>b </i>are coupled to a respective one of the pivots <b>420</b><i>a</i>, <b>420</b><i>b</i>. The loops of the second ends <b>422</b><i>c</i>, <b>424</b><i>c </i>are coupled to respective first and second coil <b>55</b>A and <b>55</b>B.

0155The inner assembly <b>501</b> includes a truncated yoke <b>151</b> connected to the fluid tube <b>54</b> and guide tube <b>56</b>. The truncated yoke <b>151</b> has preferably four legs <b>53</b> arrayed about the longitudinal axis A-A from a central portion <b>52</b>. The truncated yoke <b>151</b> does not contact the closure assembly <b>30</b> in this embodiment.

0156In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated along the longitudinal axis A-A from proximate the first position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15A</figref>) to the second position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15C</figref>), the second coil <b>55</b><i>b </i>of the biasing member <b>55</b> and the second end <b>420</b><i>c </i>of the second strap <b>424</b><i>a </i>translate along the longitudinal axis A-A while the first coil <b>55</b><i>a </i>of the biasing member <b>55</b> and the second end <b>422</b><i>c </i>of the first strap <b>422</b><i>a </i>remain proximate the edge <b>128</b><i>a </i>of the spring spacer <b>128</b>. As the second end <b>55</b><i>b </i>of the biasing member <b>55</b> translates along the longitudinal axis A-A, the second strap <b>424</b><i>a </i>pulls the closure assembly <b>30</b> along the longitudinal axis A-A and pivots the first strap <b>422</b><i>a </i>about the first coil <b>55</b><i>a </i>at pivot <b>427</b>. The first strap <b>422</b><i>a </i>pushes the closure assembly toward a side of the longitudinal axis A-A as the first strap <b>422</b><i>a </i>pivots about the first coil <b>55</b><i>a </i>at pivot <b>427</b>. In turn, the closure assembly <b>30</b> pivots about both of the pivots <b>420</b><i>a</i>, <b>420</b><i>b </i>to locate the sealing surface on a side of the longitudinal axis A-A, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15D</figref>. The sealing surface <b>37</b> is pivoted about the transverse axes by the pulling the transverse axes of the second pivot <b>420</b><i>b </i>a first side of the longitudinal axis A-A and by the pushing the transverse axes of the first pivot <b>420</b><i>a </i>to the first side of the longitudinal axis A-A from a second side of the longitudinal axis A-A that is opposite to the first side. Thus, relative motion between the second end <b>422</b><i>c </i>of the first strap <b>422</b><i>a </i>and the second end <b>424</b><i>c </i>of the second strap <b>424</b><i>a </i>pivots the closure assembly <b>30</b> about the transverse axes of the pivots <b>420</b><i>a</i>, <b>420</b><i>b </i>so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is provided by the dry sprinkler.

0157Referring to the sixteenth preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16A-16E</figref>, another arrangement of components for the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, the closure assembly <b>30</b> includes a second portion <b>34</b> formed with a surface <b>34</b><i>a </i>facing the outlet end <b>22</b> and a beveled surface <b>34</b><i>b </i>abutting the peripheral edge of the outlet facing surface <b>34</b><i>a</i>. A pivot <b>426</b> extends from the outlet facing surface <b>34</b><i>a</i>. The pivot <b>426</b> has a pivot axis B-B that is transverse to the longitudinal axis A-A. Preferably, the transverse axis B-B of the pivot <b>426</b> is offset from the longitudinal axis A-A when the closure assembly <b>30</b> is in the non-actuated position, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16A</figref>. A face <b>37</b> of a metallic disc annulus disc <b>36</b> is mounted so as to surround the first portion <b>33</b>.

0158Preferably, as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16A</figref>, <b>16</b>B, and <b>6</b>D, a strap <b>428</b> includes a first end <b>428</b><i>a </i>connected to the closure assembly <b>30</b> and a second end <b>428</b><i>b </i>connected to a biasing member <b>55</b>. The strap <b>428</b> moves the sealing surface <b>37</b> of the closure assembly <b>30</b> to the side of the longitudinal axis A-A, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16E</figref>. The strap <b>428</b> can be made from a plastic material, a metallic material or other material that will provide sufficient rigidity so that the strap <b>428</b> does not flex when the closure assembly <b>30</b> is in either of the closed position or (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16B</figref>) the open position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16C</figref>). In the preferred embodiment as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16A-16E</figref>, each end <b>428</b><i>a</i>, <b>428</b><i>b </i>of the strap <b>428</b> includes a loop for connecting the strap <b>428</b> to the closure assembly <b>30</b> and to the biasing member <b>55</b>. The loop of the first end <b>428</b><i>a </i>is coupled to the pivot <b>426</b>. The biasing member <b>55</b> can include a coil spring. The loop of the second end <b>428</b><i>b </i>of the strap <b>428</b> is pivotally coupled to a first coil <b>55</b><i>a </i>at pivot <b>427</b>.

0159In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated, the closure assembly <b>30</b> moves along the longitudinal axis A-A from proximate the first position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16A and 16D</figref>) to the second position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16C and 16E</figref>), the strap <b>428</b> pivots from a first strap position (FIGS. <b>16</b>A and <b>16</b>D)—where the strap <b>428</b> is spaced from the elongate member <b>52</b> of the yoke <b>51</b>—to a second strap position (FIGS. <b>16</b>C and <b>16</b>E)—where the strap <b>428</b> engages the elongate member <b>52</b> to move the sealing surface of the closure assembly <b>30</b> about the transverse axes of the pivots <b>426</b> and <b>427</b>—so that the face <b>37</b> of the metallic disc <b>36</b> is located on one side of the longitudinal axis A-A.

0160The coil <b>55</b><i>a </i>of the biasing member <b>55</b> and the second end <b>428</b><i>b </i>of the strap <b>428</b> remain proximate the edge <b>28</b><i>a </i>of the spring spacer as the inner assembly <b>501</b> translates along the longitudinal axis A-A. The strap <b>428</b> pivots about the coil <b>55</b><i>a </i>of the biasing member <b>55</b> and pushes the closure assembly <b>30</b> along the arcuate surface <b>52</b><i>a </i>of the elongate member <b>52</b>. The strap <b>428</b> has a length sufficient to move the pivot <b>426</b>, and the transverse axis of the pivot <b>426</b>, from a first side of the longitudinal axis A-A to the a second side of the longitudinal axis A-A opposite the first side when the strap <b>428</b> engages the elongate member <b>52</b> of the yoke <b>51</b>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16D</figref>. Here, the closure assembly <b>30</b> is sufficiently tipped about the transverse axis of the pivot <b>426</b> to cause the center of mass of the closure assembly <b>30</b> to be offset relative to the longitudinal axis A-A, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16E</figref>, due in part by the motive force provided by the strap <b>428</b>. Thus, the closure assembly <b>30</b> is generally moved by the strap <b>428</b> to be on a side of and along the longitudinal axis A-A as the inner assembly <b>501</b> is moved from proximate the first position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16A and 16D</figref>) to the second position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16C and 16E</figref>) so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is provided by the dry sprinkler.

0161Referring to the seventeenth preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 17A-171</figref>, another configuration of the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate to be achieved from the dry sprinkler. A closure assembly <b>300</b> includes a main body <b>300</b><i>a </i>and cap <b>300</b><i>b</i>. The main body <b>300</b><i>a </i>includes a first portion <b>33</b> that is adjacent to a second portion <b>34</b>. The second portion <b>34</b> cooperates with the cap <b>300</b><i>b </i>to form a hole <b>300</b><i>c</i>. The cap <b>300</b><i>b </i>can be attached to the main body <b>300</b><i>a </i>by one or more screws <b>300</b><i>d</i>, or by any other fastener suitable for connecting the main body <b>300</b><i>a </i>and the cap <b>300</b><i>b</i>. The closure assembly <b>300</b> is mounted via the hole <b>300</b><i>c </i>for pivoting motion about a pivot axis B-B, which orthogonally intersects the longitudinal axis A-A. The hole <b>300</b><i>c </i>allows for rotation of the closure assembly <b>300</b> in the activated configuration. Alternatively, in lieu of a single hole <b>300</b><i>c</i>, relative pivoting may be accomplished by a pair of blind holes located on opposite sides of the second portion <b>34</b> and aligned along the pivot axis B-B, or any suitable arrangement that provides a shaft with a bearing surface about which the closure assembly <b>300</b> pivots. The inner assembly <b>501</b> can include a two-legged member <b>51</b>, a fluid tube <b>54</b>, and a guide tube <b>56</b>. The member <b>51</b> is coupled to the fluid tube <b>54</b>, and the fluid tube <b>54</b> is coupled to the guide tube <b>56</b>, and the guide tube <b>56</b>, is coupled to the trigger seat <b>62</b>. The inner assembly <b>501</b> may optionally include a biasing member <b>55</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> G).

0162The two-legged member <b>51</b> includes a throw journal <b>510</b> located between a first in journal <b>512</b> and a second main journal <b>514</b>, and thus may be shaped similar to a crankshaft. The first main journal <b>512</b> is pivotally disposed within a first bearing <b>542</b> defined by the fluid tube <b>54</b>, the second main journal <b>514</b> is pivotally disposed within a second bearing <b>544</b> defined by the fluid tube <b>54</b>, and the throw journal <b>510</b> is pivotally disposed within the hole <b>300</b><i>c</i>, which defines a third bearing. The third bearing, i.e., the hole <b>300</b><i>c</i>, is preferably offset along the longitudinal axis A-A with respect to the first and second bearings <b>542</b>,<b>544</b>.

0163Thus, as seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17G</figref>, the two-legged member <b>51</b> supports the closure assembly <b>300</b> relative to the inner assembly <b>501</b> such that, in the closed position of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b>, the first, second, and third bearings <b>542</b>,<b>544</b>,<b>300</b><i>c </i>lie in a plane that also includes the longitudinal axis A-A. In the actuated or open position of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b>, the two-legged member <b>51</b> cooperates with the fluid tube <b>54</b> and with the closure assembly <b>300</b> to move the closure assembly <b>300</b> to a side of the longitudinal axis A-A so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is provided by the dry sprinkler.

0164Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 17H and 17I</figref>, another configuration of the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate to be achieved from the dry sprinkler. Specifically, in the closed position of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b>, the plane that contains the first, second, and third bearings <b>542</b>,<b>544</b>,<b>300</b><i>c </i>is obliquely oriented with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A. The amount that the pivot axis B-B is offset from the longitudinal axis A-A is selected so as to minimally affect the engagement of the face <b>37</b> with the inlet fitting <b>23</b>. That is to say, the effect of the asymmetrical support provided by the member <b>51</b> should not prevent the face <b>37</b> from properly engaging with the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so as to occlude the inlet opening <b>23</b><i>e</i>. By virtue of the pivot axis B-B being offset from the longitudinal axis A-A, the closure assembly <b>300</b> cannot avoid pivoting when the inner assembly <b>501</b> moves away from the first position.

0165The dry sprinkler of this embodiment can be assembled as described above in relation to the third preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler and further in the following manner with regard to the first through third bearings and throw journal. The locator <b>50</b>, including the closure assembly <b>30</b>, two-legged member <b>51</b>, the fluid tube <b>54</b>, and the guide tube <b>56</b>, are sub-assembled together, and then the whole subassembly is positioned in the casing tube <b>24</b>. A guide tool is inserted, in the direction of fluid flow, through the inlet opening <b>23</b><i>e </i>and is engaged with the opening <b>33</b><i>a </i>of the closure assembly. The biasing member <b>55</b> may optionally be fitted inside the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so as to cincture the guide tool. If necessary, a sleeve <b>42</b> may also be inserted in the inlet fitting <b>23</b> to provide a seat for the biasing member <b>55</b>. The tool is used to guide the closure assembly <b>30</b> the occluding position with respect to the inlet opening <b>23</b><i>e</i>, and the casing tube <b>24</b> and inlet fitting <b>23</b> are threadably coupled. While continuing to use the guide tool to maintain the closure assembly <b>30</b> in the occluding position, the outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) including the triggering mechanism <b>60</b> is threadably coupled to the casing tube <b>24</b>. Next, the adjustment screw <b>71</b> is adjusted to a sufficiently high torque value that in the final assembled position, the screw <b>71</b> in conjunction with the outer surface <b>25</b><i>a </i>will cause the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> to be compressed against the inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>and maintain all components at their intended position without damaging the frangible bulb <b>61</b>.

0166The subassembly of the inner assembly <b>501</b> can include the following steps, The journal <b>510</b> of the two-legged member <b>51</b> can be positioned in the portion of the third bearing <b>300</b><i>c </i>defined by the main body <b>30</b><i>a</i>. The cap <b>30</b><i>b </i>is then coupled to main body <b>30</b><i>a </i>by one or more screws <b>30</b><i>d</i>, whereby the second portfolio <b>34</b> and cap <b>30</b><i>b </i>define the hole <b>300</b><i>c </i>that receives the throw journal <b>510</b>. The first and second journals <b>512</b>,<b>514</b>, of two legged member <b>51</b> are then held in an elastically deformed condition, aligned with the corresponding first and second bearings <b>542</b>,<b>544</b>, and released from the elastically deformed condition so as to be received in the corresponding first and second bearings <b>542</b>,<b>544</b>. Thus, a partially assembled dry sprinkler is provided at this point. Thereafter, the two-legged yoke <b>51</b> and trigger assembly <b>60</b> can be mounted to the partially assembled dry sprinkler to provide a complete dry sprinkler as described earlier.

0167In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated, the closure assembly <b>300</b> is sufficiently rotated to cause the center of mass of the closure assembly <b>300</b> to be offset relative to the longitudinal axis A-A, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 17D and 17F</figref>, due in part to the propensity of the two-legged member <b>51</b> to pivot about all three of its journals <b>510</b>,<b>512</b>,<b>514</b>. Thus, the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is achieved from the dry sprinkler as the locator <b>50</b> is moved from proximate the first position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17A</figref>) to the second position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17D</figref>).

0168Referring to the eighteenth preferred embodiment as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 18A-181</figref>, another arrangement of components for the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, closure assembly <b>30</b> includes a body with a first end <b>30</b><i>a </i>and second end <b>30</b><i>b</i>. The second end <b>30</b><i>b </i>includes a first contact area <b>30</b><i>c </i>that faces the outlet end <b>22</b>. The first contact area <b>30</b><i>c </i>defines a pivot point that is coincidental with the longitudinal axis A-A. The inner assembly <b>501</b> can include a two-legged member <b>51</b>, a fluid tube <b>54</b>, and a guide tube <b>56</b>. The member <b>51</b> is coupled to the fluid tube <b>54</b>, and the fluid tube <b>54</b> is coupled to the guide tube <b>56</b>, and the guide tube <b>56</b> is coupled to the trigger seat <b>62</b>. The locator <b>50</b> may optionally include a biasing member <b>55</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18G</figref>). The two-legged member <b>51</b> includes a throw journal <b>510</b><i>a </i>located between a first main journal <b>512</b><i>a </i>and a second main journal <b>514</b><i>a</i>, and thus maybe shaped similar to a crankshaft. The first main journal <b>512</b><i>a </i>is pivotally disposed within a first bearing <b>542</b><i>a </i>defined by the fluid tube <b>54</b>, the second main journal <b>514</b><i>a </i>is pivotally disposed within a second bearing <b>544</b><i>a </i>defined by the fluid tube <b>54</b>, and the throw journal <b>510</b><i>a </i>is pivotally received by the recess <b>30</b><i>c</i>, which defines a partial bearing. The partial bearing, i.e., the recess <b>30</b><i>c</i>, is offset with respect to the first and second bearings <b>542</b><i>a</i>,<b>544</b><i>a. </i>

0169Thus, as best seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18A</figref> the two-legged member <b>51</b> supports the closure assembly <b>30</b> relative to the inner assembly <b>501</b> such that, in the closed position of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b>, the first, second, and partial bearings <b>542</b><i>a</i>,<b>544</b><i>a</i>,<b>30</b><i>c </i>lie in a plane that also includes the longitudinal axis A-A. In the open position of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b>, the two-legged member <b>51</b> cooperates with the fluid tube <b>54</b> and with the closure assembly <b>30</b> to move the closure assembly <b>30</b> to a side of the longitudinal axis A-A.

0170The dry sprinkler <b>10</b> of this embodiment can be assembled as described above in relation to the assembly description of the first preferred embodiment and further in the following manner with regard to the main and throw journals. The locator <b>50</b>, including the closure assembly <b>30</b>, the two-legged member <b>51</b>, the fluid tube <b>54</b>, and the guide tube <b>56</b>, are sub-assembled together as a subassembly and then the whole subassembly is positioned in the casing tube <b>24</b>. A guide tool is inserted, in the direction of fluid flow, through the inlet opening <b>23</b><i>e </i>and is engaged with the opening <b>33</b><i>a </i>of the closure assembly. The biasing member <b>55</b> may optionally be fitted inside the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so as to cincture the guide tool. If necessary, a sleeve <b>42</b> may also be inserted in the inlet fitting <b>23</b> to provide a seat for the biasing member <b>55</b>. The tool is used to guide the closure assembly <b>30</b> the occluding position with respect to the inlet opening <b>23</b><i>e</i>, and the casing tube <b>24</b> and inlet fitting <b>23</b> are threadably coupled. While continuing to use the guide tool to maintain the closure assembly <b>30</b> in the occluding position, the outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) including the triggering mechanism <b>60</b> is threadably coupled to the casing tube <b>24</b>. Next, the adjustment screw <b>71</b> is adjusted to a sufficiently high torque value that in, the final assembled position, the screw <b>71</b> in conjunction with the outer surface <b>25</b><i>a </i>will cause the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> to be compressed against the inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>and maintain all components at their intended position without damaging the frangible bulb <b>61</b>.

0171The subassembly of the inner assembly <b>501</b> can include the following steps. The first and second journals <b>512</b><i>a</i>,<b>514</b><i>a</i>, of two legged member <b>51</b> are held in an elastically deformed condition, aligned with the corresponding first and second bearings <b>542</b><i>a</i>,<b>544</b><i>a</i>, and released from the elastically deformed condition so as to be received in the corresponding first and second bearings <b>542</b><i>a</i>,<b>544</b><i>a</i>. The journal <b>510</b><i>a </i>of the two-legged member <b>51</b> can then be positioned in the recess <b>30</b><i>c </i>defined by the main body <b>30</b><i>a</i>. Thus, a partially assembled dry sprinkler is provided at this point. Thereafter, the two-legged yoke <b>51</b> and trigger assembly <b>60</b> can be mounted to the partially assembled dry sprinkler to provide a complete dry sprinkler as described earlier.

0172In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated so that the locator <b>50</b> is translated, the closure assembly <b>30</b> is sufficiently pivoted to cause the center of mass of the closure assembly <b>30</b> to be offset relative to the longitudinal axis A-A, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 18D and 18F</figref>, due in part to the propensity of the two-legged member <b>51</b> to pivot about all three of its journals <b>510</b><i>a</i>,<b>512</b><i>a</i>,<b>514</b><i>a</i>, and of the recess <b>30</b><i>a </i>to release from the two-legged member <b>51</b>. Thus, closure assembly <b>30</b> is released and generally moves to one side of and along the longitudinal axis A-A as the inner assembly <b>501</b> is moved from proximate the first position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18A</figref>) to the second position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18D</figref>) so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is provided by the dry sprinkler.

0173Referring to the nineteenth preferred embodiment as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 19A-19E</figref>, another arrangement of components for the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, the inner assembly <b>501</b> includes a yoke <b>520</b>, a bar <b>521</b>, a fluid tube <b>54</b>, and a guide tube <b>56</b>. The yoke <b>520</b> includes a plurality of apertures <b>522</b><i>b </i>and a second contact area <b>522</b><i>c</i>. The plurality of apertures <b>522</b><i>b </i>each perforates the yoke <b>520</b> and is spaced from the longitudinal axis A-A. Preferably, the yoke <b>520</b> is in the form of a generally planar support plate that has a thickness measured parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A between a first surface <b>523</b><i>a </i>and a second surface <b>523</b><i>b</i>. Thus, each of the plurality of apertures <b>522</b><i>b </i>connects the first and second surfaces <b>523</b><i>a</i>, <b>523</b><i>b</i>. Preferably, the first surface <b>523</b><i>a </i>of the yoke <b>520</b> faces the inlet, and the second surface <b>523</b><i>b </i>of the yoke <b>520</b> faces the outlet.

0174The second contact area <b>522</b><i>c </i>is coincident with the longitudinal axis A-A, and has a depth less than the thickness of the yoke <b>520</b>. Preferably, the second contact area <b>522</b><i>c </i>is provided on the first surface <b>523</b><i>a </i>of the yoke <b>520</b>. The bar <b>521</b> extends along the longitudinal axis A-A between a first end <b>521</b><i>a </i>and a second end <b>521</b><i>b</i>. The first end <b>521</b><i>a </i>is cooperatively received in the first contact area <b>30</b><i>c </i>of the closure assembly <b>30</b>, and the second end <b>521</b><i>b </i>is cooperatively received in the second contact area <b>522</b><i>c </i>of the yoke <b>520</b>.

0175The dry sprinkler <b>10</b> of this embodiment can be assembled as described above in relation to the assembly description of the first preferred embodiment and further in the following manner with regard to the pivoting bar <b>521</b> and yoke <b>520</b>. The locator <b>50</b>, including the closure assembly <b>30</b>, yoke <b>51</b>, the fluid tube <b>54</b>, and the guide tube <b>56</b>, are sub-assembled together, and then the whole subassembly is positioned in the casing tube <b>24</b>. A guide tool is inserted, in the direction of fluid flow, through the inlet opening <b>23</b><i>e </i>and is engaged with the opening <b>33</b><i>a </i>of the closure assembly. A temporary fixture is used to position the bar <b>521</b> within the inlet fitting <b>23</b> such that the first end <b>521</b><i>a </i>is cooperatively received in the first contact area <b>30</b><i>c </i>of the closure assembly <b>30</b>. The biasing member <b>55</b> may optionally be fitted inside the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so as to cincture the guide tool. If necessary, a sleeve <b>42</b> may also be inserted in the inlet fitting <b>23</b> to provide a seat for the biasing member <b>55</b>. The tool is used to guide and maintain the closure assembly <b>30</b> in the occluding position with respect to the inlet opening <b>23</b><i>e </i>while the casing tube <b>24</b> with the inner assembly <b>501</b> therein is threadably coupled to the inlet fitting <b>23</b>. At the same time, the second end <b>521</b><i>b </i>of the bar <b>521</b> is cooperatively received in the second contact area <b>522</b><i>c </i>of the yoke <b>51</b>. While continuing to use the guide tool to maintain the closure assembly <b>30</b> in the occluding position, the outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) including the triggering mechanism <b>60</b> is threadably coupled to the casing tube <b>24</b>. Next, the adjustment screw <b>71</b> is adjusted to a sufficiently high torque value that in the final assembled position, the screw <b>71</b> in conjunction with the outlet frame will cause the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> to be compressed against the inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>and maintain all components at their intended position without damaging the frangible bulb <b>61</b>.

0176In operation, when the inner assembly <b>501</b> (the yoke <b>520</b>, bar <b>521</b>, fluid tube <b>54</b>, and guide tube <b>56</b>) is translated along axis A-A due to actuation of the dry sprinkler, the face <b>37</b> separates from the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>, and the support at the two pivot points becomes unstable due to the absence of the bar <b>521</b> supporting the closure assembly <b>30</b> with respect to the yoke <b>520</b>. In particular, relative pivoting motion occurs at the interface between the first contact area <b>30</b><i>c </i>and the first end <b>521</b><i>a </i>of the bar <b>521</b>, or between the second contact area <b>522</b><i>c </i>and the second end <b>521</b><i>b </i>of the bar <b>521</b>, or both. As the closure assembly <b>30</b> translates along axis A-A, and by virtue of the bar <b>521</b> being longer than the inside diameter of the outer structure <b>20</b>, the bar <b>521</b> falls to an inclined position relative to the longitudinal axis A-A. Consequently, the face <b>37</b> is also tipped so as be obliquely oriented with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A. Thus, closure assembly <b>30</b> is generally moved to one side of and along the longitudinal axis A-A as the locator <b>50</b> is moved from proximate the first position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19A</figref>) to the second position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19C</figref>) so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is provided by the dry sprinkler.

0177Referring to the twentieth preferred embodiment as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 20A-20F</figref>, an arrangement of components for the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In this embodiment, the structure <b>20</b> includes a dislodgment member <b>26</b> supported by the casing tube <b>24</b>. The dislodgment member <b>26</b> includes a base <b>26</b><i>a </i>that is secured with respect the casing tube <b>24</b>. At least one radially inward extending arm <b>26</b><i>b </i>connects the base <b>26</b><i>a </i>to a kicker <b>26</b><i>c</i>. Preferably, the kicker <b>26</b><i>c </i>projects along the longitudinal axis A-A toward the inlet end <b>21</b>. The kicker <b>26</b><i>c </i>includes a first oblique surface <b>26</b><i>d </i>relative to the longitudinal axis A-A. The inner assembly <b>501</b> can include a yoke <b>600</b>, a post <b>602</b>, a fluid tube <b>54</b>, and a guide tube <b>56</b>. In the non-actuated configuration, the yoke <b>600</b> is coupled to the fluid tube <b>54</b>, and the fluid tube <b>54</b> is coupled to the guide tube <b>56</b>, and the guide tube <b>56</b> is coupled to the trigger seat <b>62</b>. The yoke <b>600</b> includes a plurality of fluid flow apertures <b>604</b> and a dislodgment aperture <b>606</b>. The pluralities of fluid flow apertures <b>604</b> each perforates the yoke <b>600</b> and are spaced from the longitudinal axis A-A. Preferably, the yoke <b>600</b> is in the form of a generally planar support plate that has a thickness measured parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A between a first surface <b>600</b><i>a </i>and a second surface <b>600</b><i>b</i>. Thus, each of the plurality of fluid flow apertures <b>604</b> connects the first and second surfaces <b>600</b><i>a</i>, <b>600</b><i>b</i>. Preferably, the first surface <b>600</b><i>a </i>of the yoke <b>600</b> faces the inlet <b>21</b>, and the second surface <b>600</b><i>b </i>of the yoke <b>600</b> faces the outlet end <b>22</b>.

0178Preferably, the second surface <b>600</b><i>b </i>includes a support surface that is spaced from the longitudinal axis A-A and contacts the fluid tube <b>54</b> to support the yoke <b>600</b>. And the second surface <b>600</b>B includes a contact surface that is coincident with the longitudinal axis A-A. Each of the first and second surfaces <b>600</b><i>a</i>, <b>600</b><i>b </i>having a surface area that is less than the cross-sectional area, generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A, of the passageway <b>20</b><i>a. </i>

0179The dislodgment aperture <b>606</b> includes an elongated hole that extends radially with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A. The plurality of fluid flow apertures <b>604</b> and the dislodgment aperture <b>606</b> connect the first and second surfaces <b>600</b><i>a</i>, <b>600</b><i>b </i>of the yoke <b>600</b>.

0180The post <b>602</b> extends along the longitudinal axis A-A between a first end <b>602</b><i>a </i>and a second end <b>602</b><i>b</i>. The first end <b>602</b><i>a </i>is cooperatively received in the first recess <b>30</b><i>c </i>of the closure assembly <b>30</b>, and the second end <b>602</b><i>b </i>sits on the first surface <b>600</b><i>a </i>of the yoke <b>600</b>. Proximate the second end <b>602</b><i>b </i>of the post <b>602</b>, there is a second oblique surface <b>602</b><i>c </i>relative to the longitudinal axis A-A. Preferably, the first and second oblique surfaces <b>26</b><i>d</i>,<b>602</b><i>c </i>have the same angle of inclination with respect to the longitudinal axis A-.A.

0181The dry sprinkler <b>10</b> of this embodiment can be assembled as described above in relation to the previous embodiment of the dry sprinkler and further in the following manner with regard to the sliding bar and dislodgment member. The inlet fitting <b>23</b> is positioned such that the inlet opening <b>23</b><i>e </i>is on the bottom. A guide tool is inserted, in the direction of fluid flow, through the inlet opening <b>23</b><i>e </i>and is engaged with the opening <b>33</b> of the closure assembly. A temporary fixture is used to position the post <b>602</b> within the inlet fitting <b>23</b> such that the first end <b>602</b><i>a </i>is cooperatively received in the first recess <b>30</b><i>c </i>of the closure assembly <b>30</b>. The biasing member <b>55</b> may optionally be fitted inside the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so as to cincture the post <b>602</b>. The yoke <b>600</b> is engaged with the second end <b>602</b><i>b </i>of the post <b>602</b>. The inner assembly <b>501</b>, including the fluid tube <b>54</b> and the guide tube <b>56</b>, are sub-assembled together, and then the inner assembly <b>501</b> is positioned in the casing tube <b>24</b> such that the slots <b>54</b><i>a </i>slidably receive a corresponding one of the radially inward extending arms <b>26</b><i>b </i>of the dislodgment member <b>26</b>. The tool is used to guide and maintain the closure assembly <b>30</b> in the occluding position with respect to the inlet opening <b>23</b><i>e </i>while the casing tube <b>24</b> with the inner assembly <b>501</b> therein is threadably coupled to the inlet fitting <b>23</b>. While continuing to use the guide tool to maintain the closure assembly <b>30</b> in the occluding position, the outlet frame (<b>25</b>,<b>251</b>,<b>252</b>) including the triggering mechanism <b>60</b> is threadably coupled to the casing tube <b>24</b>. Next, the adjustment screw <b>71</b> is adjusted to a sufficiently high torque value that in the final assembled position, the screw <b>71</b> in conjunction with the outer surface <b>25</b><i>a </i>will cause the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> to be compressed against the inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>and maintain all components at their intended position without damaging the frangible bulb <b>61</b>.

0182In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated, the closure assembly <b>30</b> and inner assembly <b>501</b> (the yoke <b>600</b>, post <b>602</b>, fluid tube <b>54</b>, and guide tube <b>56</b>) are translated along axis A-A. The radially inward extending arm(s) <b>26</b><i>b </i>slide within the slots <b>54</b><i>a </i>of the fluid tube <b>54</b>, and the kicker <b>26</b><i>c </i>penetrates the dislodgment aperture <b>606</b> of the yoke <b>600</b>. The first oblique surface <b>26</b><i>d </i>engages the second oblique surface <b>602</b><i>c </i>so as to laterally displace the post <b>602</b> relative to the longitudinal axis A-A. In the absence of the post <b>602</b> supporting the closure assembly <b>30</b> with respect to the yoke <b>600</b>, the face <b>37</b> separates from the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. In particular, relative pivoting motion occurs at the interface between the first recess <b>30</b><i>c </i>and the first end <b>602</b><i>a </i>of the post <b>602</b> as the second end <b>602</b><i>b </i>of the post <b>602</b> slides across the second surface <b>600</b><i>b </i>of the yoke <b>600</b>.

0183As the closure assembly <b>30</b> translates along axis A-A, and by virtue of the post <b>602</b> either remaining upright, i.e., parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A, and by virtue of the post <b>602</b> being laterally displaced by the kicker <b>26</b><i>c</i>, the face <b>37</b> is tipped so as be obliquely oriented with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A. Thus, closure assembly <b>30</b> is generally moved to one side of and along the longitudinal axis A-A so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is provided by the dry sprinkler.

0184Referring to the twenty-first preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 21A-21I</figref>, another arrangement of components for the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. As described generally above, the multi-legged yoke <b>51</b> includes a single member first yoke end <b>51</b><i>a </i>and a four-legged second yoke end <b>51</b><i>b</i>. The yoke <b>51</b> has two stamped metal members <b>52</b><i>a </i>and <b>52</b><i>b </i>joined via a plurality of tack welds. Each of the members has central portion and two projections at appropriate angles that diverge from the longitudinal axis A-A. The projections <b>53</b> of respective stamped metal members <b>52</b><i>a </i>and <b>52</b><i>b </i>are configured such that they form four sectors about the longitudinal axis, where a pair of diametrical sectors (A and C in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21D</figref>) of generally equal first arcuate distance is interposed by a pair of diametrical sectors (B and D in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21D</figref>) of generally equal second arcuate distance, and where the first arcuate distance is greater than the second. Provided between two legs <b>53</b> that preferably form a smaller arcuate sector than an adjacent arcuate sector is a flow obstructing member <b>40</b><i>a</i>. The flow obstructing member <b>40</b><i>a </i>can be formed integrally with one of the leg <b>53</b>. Preferably, the flow obstructing member <b>40</b><i>a </i>is a separate member that is fixed to the two adjacent legs <b>53</b> by respective tack welds <b>41</b>. In one preferred embodiment, the flow obstructing member can obstruct flow generally through approximately the flow area defined by the two legs and the inner surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>, as shown by member <b>40</b><i>a </i>in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 21D and 21E</figref>. Alternatively, in another preferred embodiment, the flow obstructing member can obstruct flow partially through approximately the flow area defined by the two legs and the inner surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>, as shown by member <b>40</b><i>b </i>in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 21H and 21I</figref>. The flow obstructing member <b>40</b><i>a </i>or <b>40</b><i>b </i>causes fire-extinguishing fluid F flowing through an actuated dry sprinkler <b>10</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref> C) to be obstructed through the arcuate sector C (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21D</figref>) such that the fluid F is forced to divert to other arcuate sectors about the longitudinal axis A-A. The diversion of fluid flow F tends to cause the closure assembly <b>30</b> to be moved off its support on surface <b>51</b><i>a </i>of the yoke <b>51</b> as the dry sprinkler is being actuated.

0185The assembly of this embodiment can be performed in a similar manner as the third preferred embodiment.

0186In operation, as the dry sprinkler is actuated, the closure assembly <b>30</b> and inner assembly <b>501</b> (the yoke <b>51</b>, fluid tube <b>54</b>, and guide tube <b>56</b>) are translated along axis A-A so as to separate the face <b>37</b> from the sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. Once the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> is no longer in contact with sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>, the closure assembly <b>30</b> can pivot off the first support end <b>51</b><i>a </i>of the yoke <b>51</b>. It is noted that under one circumstance, the closure member assembly <b>30</b> may be moved off its support on the support surface <b>51</b><i>a </i>of the yoke due to movement of the locator and water pressure to permit water to flow at approximately rated flow rate. However, under other circumstances, the closure assembly <b>30</b> may nutate (i.e., wobble about the longitudinal axis A-A) such that the closure assembly <b>30</b> presents a flow obstruction to the inlet thereby allowing only a partial flow through the outlet. Under the latter circumstance, the partial flow encounters another flow obstruction in the form of either member <b>40</b><i>a </i>or <b>40</b><i>b </i>that forces fluid F to flow around the obstruction. The redirecting of flow around the flow obstruction may cause the closure assembly <b>30</b> to be further unbalanced while it is rotating about the first support end <b>51</b><i>a</i>, thereby tending to move the closure assembly off the yoke <b>51</b> such that the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is achieved from the dry sprinkler. Because the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed relative to the longitudinal axis A-A, fluid can flow at approximately 95% of the expected flow rate through the passageway <b>20</b><i>a. </i>

0187Referring to the twenty-second preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 22A</figref><b>22</b>E, another arrangement of components for the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, the casing tube <b>24</b> has an outer casing tube surface <b>24</b><i>a </i>and an inner casing tube surface <b>24</b><i>b</i>, which surfaces cincture part of the passageway <b>20</b><i>a</i>. The casing tube <b>24</b> can be asymmetrically formed over a portion <b>440</b> located between the inlet <b>21</b> and the outlet <b>22</b>. The casing tube <b>24</b> can also be formed such that the asymmetrical portion <b>440</b> can be formed between symmetrical portions <b>440</b><i>a </i>and <b>440</b><i>b</i>. The portion <b>440</b> of the casing tube <b>24</b> can be formed such that, when viewed from the inlet end on the longitudinal axis A-A, the portion <b>440</b> defines a chord <b>41</b><i>a </i>between transverse axis B-B, which has a larger magnitude than a chord <b>41</b><i>b </i>of the symmetrical portion <b>440</b><i>a </i>or <b>440</b><i>b </i>between transverse axis B-B. The casing tube <b>24</b> including the asymmetrical portion <b>440</b> can be formed by a suitable technique such as, for example, deep drawing or hydro-forming.

0188The inlet opening <b>23</b><i>e </i>extends about a plane generally transverse to and about the longitudinal axis A-A so as to define a first flow area FA<b>1</b>. The casing tube <b>24</b> can be formed so as to define a second flow area through asymmetrical portion <b>440</b> such as, for example, by providing the asymmetrical portion without a gradual increase in the flow area. The casing tube <b>24</b> can be formed so as to provide a plurality of flow areas along the longitudinal axis A-A. The plurality of flow areas allows for a gradual increase in flow area and a gradual decrease in flow area through the asymmetrical portion <b>440</b>. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22D</figref>, the minimum flow area <b>41</b>_MINthrough asymmetrical portion <b>440</b> is generally equal to a flow area of the symmetrical portion <b>440</b><i>a </i>of the casing tube <b>24</b> and the maximum flow area <b>41</b>_MAXthrough the asymmetrical portion <b>440</b> is generally much greater than the minimum flow area <b>41</b>_MIN, and the maximum flow area is greater than the first flow area FA<b>1</b>.

0189The assembly of this embodiment can be performed in a similar manner as the third preferred embodiment.

0190In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated, the inner assembly <b>501</b> (the yoke <b>51</b>, fluid tube <b>54</b>, and guide tube <b>56</b>) is translated along axis A-A so as to separate the face <b>37</b> from the inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>. Once the outer perimeter or a portion of the face <b>37</b> is no longer in contact with inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b</i>, the closure assembly <b>30</b> can separate from the first support end <b>51</b><i>a </i>of the yoke <b>51</b>. It is noted that under one circumstance, the closure member assembly <b>30</b> may be moved off its support on the support surface <b>51</b><i>a </i>of the yoke due to movement of the locator and water pressure to permit water to flow at approximately rated flow rate. However, under another circumstances, the closure assembly <b>30</b> may nutate (i.e., wobble about the longitudinal axis A-A) such that the closure member <b>30</b> presents a flow obstruction to the inlet thereby allowing only a partial flow through the outlet. Under the latter circumstance, the partial flow encounters a pressure differential due to the difference in flow area FA<b>1</b> and flow area FA<b>2</b> that forces fluid F to flow onto a side of the longitudinal axis A-A. The redirecting of flow around due to the pressure differential may cause the closure assembly <b>30</b> to be further unbalanced while it is nutating about the first support end <b>51</b><i>a </i>such that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is achieved from the dry sprinkler, thereby tending to move the closure assembly off the yoke <b>51</b> into the volume V defined by the asymmetrical portion <b>440</b> of the casing tube <b>24</b>, and allowing approximately expected flow rate through the passageway <b>20</b><i>a. </i>

0191Referring to the twenty-third preferred embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 21A-21I</figref>, another arrangement of components for the locator <b>50</b> is provided for repositioning of the face <b>37</b> so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed to the longitudinal axis A-A in an actuated condition of the dry sprinkler <b>10</b> and the expected flow rate is provided from the dry sprinkler. In particular, the inner assembly <b>501</b> includes the yoke <b>721</b>, a water tube <b>54</b>, and a guide tube <b>56</b>. In the non-actuated configuration, the yoke <b>721</b> is coupled to the guide tube <b>56</b>, and the guide tube <b>56</b> is coupled to the water tube <b>54</b>, and the water tube <b>54</b>, is coupled to the trigger seat <b>62</b>. The locator <b>50</b> may optionally include a biasing member that in a preferred embodiment includes an assist spring <b>55</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23I</figref>) to assist movement of the locator from its unactuated position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23A</figref>) to an actuated position (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23E</figref>).

0192The yoke <b>721</b> locates the closure assembly <b>30</b> with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A. The yoke <b>721</b> has a central journal <b>720</b> coupled to the closure assembly <b>30</b> by a bearing surface <b>35</b> of the closure assembly <b>30</b> via an end cap <b>35</b><i>a</i>, and a main journal <b>722</b> coupled to the inner assembly <b>501</b> via another bearing surface <b>724</b>. The main journal <b>722</b> is rotatable in bearing surface <b>724</b> about an axis B-B orthogonal to the longitudinal axis A-A. The central journal <b>720</b> has a tubular configuration that is connected to two elongate members <b>721</b><i>a </i>and <b>721</b><i>b</i>. The first leg <b>721</b><i>a </i>is preferably connected to the main journal <b>722</b> as a unitary member. The main journal <b>722</b> is preferably coupled to the water tube <b>54</b> by the main bearing surface <b>724</b>. The main journal <b>722</b> is also rotatable about an axis C-C generally parallel to axis B-B of the central journal <b>720</b>. The main journal <b>722</b> is also rotatable about an axis D-D transverse to the axis C-C so that the leg <b>721</b><i>a </i>has two-degree of freedom about main bearing <b>724</b>. The second leg <b>721</b><i>b </i>is preferably coupled to an impact pad <b>752</b><i>c</i>. The impact pad <b>752</b><i>c </i>can be mounted to an open-ended pocket <b>753</b> formed through the inner and outer surfaces of the water tube <b>54</b>. The open ended pocket <b>753</b> can be provided with a groove <b>753</b><i>a </i>extending along the longitudinal axis A-A so that a projection <b>741</b> (formed as part of casing tube <b>24</b>) can project through the groove <b>753</b><i>a </i>so as to guide the water tube <b>54</b> along the longitudinal axis A-A and to generally constrain the water tube <b>54</b> against angular (i.e., radial) movements about the longitudinal axis A-A.

0193The dry sprinkler <b>10</b> of this embodiment can be assembled as described above in relation to the eighteenth preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler and further in the following manner with regard to the crank arm end and impact pad. The face <b>37</b> is connected to the member <b>721</b> via the closure assembly <b>30</b> with an end cap <b>35</b><i>a</i>. The main journal <b>722</b> is inserted into the main bearing <b>724</b> of the fluid tube <b>54</b>. The impact pad <b>752</b><i>c </i>is placed into the pocket <b>753</b>. The water tube <b>54</b> is coupled to the guide tube <b>56</b>. These component form a locator subassembly that is preferably inserted into the inlet fitting <b>23</b>.

0194The locator subassembly described above can be coupled to the casing tube <b>24</b>. Casing tube <b>24</b> is preferably configured so that its inner diameter is generally greater than the outer diameter of the water tube <b>54</b>. The water tube <b>54</b> is preferably inserted into the casing tube <b>24</b> such that a longitudinal axis of the water tube <b>54</b> is offset to the longitudinal axis of the casing tube <b>24</b> so that enough clearance is provided between the projection <b>741</b> and a solid portion of the water tube <b>54</b> before the projection <b>741</b> is fitted into the groove <b>753</b><i>a </i>as the water tube <b>54</b> is slid upward axially.

0195A suitable tool is inserted into opening <b>33</b><i>a </i>so as to maintain the resilient sealing member <b>37</b> in a generally transverse configuration as the locator subassembly is coupled or preferably threaded to the inlet fitting <b>23</b>. The closure assembly <b>30</b> is oriented in the inlet <b>21</b> so that the resilient sealing member <b>37</b> contacts an inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet <b>21</b>. In another preferred embodiments, a sleeve <b>42</b> is inserted in the inlet fitting <b>23</b> and a biasing member in the form of a assist spring <b>55</b> is thereafter placed into the interior surface <b>23</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23I</figref>.

0196As the casing tube <b>24</b> is preferably threaded to the inlet fitting <b>23</b>, the axial movement of the casing tube <b>24</b> relative to the inlet fitting <b>23</b> partially compresses the resilient sealing member <b>37</b> (i.e. the metallic disc annulus in a preferred embodiment) against the inlet sealing surface <b>38</b><i>b </i>of the inlet fitting <b>23</b> so that the components described above form a partially assembled dry sprinkler. Thereafter, the member <b>721</b> and trigger assembly <b>60</b> can be mounted to the partially assembled dry sprinkler to provide a complete dry sprinkler as described earlier.

0197In operation, when the dry sprinkler is actuated, the inner assembly <b>501</b> (the yoke <b>721</b>, water tube <b>54</b>, and guide tube <b>56</b>) is translated along axis A-A so as to separate the seal member <b>37</b> from the inlet sealing surface <b>38</b>. As the locator <b>50</b> translates towards the second position, the projection <b>741</b> impacts against the impact pad <b>752</b><i>c </i>so as to provide an impulse force on the closure assembly <b>30</b>. The impulse force tends to cause the yoke <b>721</b> to rotate on one of its legs <b>721</b><i>a </i>about the -axis C-C and axis D-D to provide roll about axis C-C and pitch about axis D-D to the leg <b>721</b><i>a</i>. That is to say, the impulse force caused by the projection <b>741</b> on impact shoe <b>752</b><i>c </i>tends to cause the leg <b>721</b><i>a </i>to rotate about its bearing on axis C-C for a roll and also to rotate about an axis D-D transverse to the axis C-C for a pitch (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23G</figref>), i.e., a compound motion involving roll and pitch of the leg <b>721</b><i>a</i>. This two-degree of freedom of movement tends to cause the closure assembly <b>30</b> to be unbalanced on its axis B-B, which could cause the closure assembly <b>30</b> to rotate or pivot about axis B-B. As the closure assembly <b>30</b> pivots about axis B-B, the closure assembly is pivoted over to a side of the longitudinal axis A-A so that the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> is skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A and the expected flow rate is provided by the dry sprinkler.

0198As described above, the dry sprinkler of the preferred embodiments is believed to advantageous in that, due to the various arrangements of components within the dry sprinkler that position the central axis X-X of the face <b>37</b> (of a metallic disc annulus) skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis A-A, a minimum flow rate of 95% of the rated K-factor times the square root of the pressure of the flow of fluid fed into the inlet can be achieved. Preferably, each of the inlet fitting, means for repositioning the face <b>37</b> and bias member <b>55</b> can be made of a copper, bronze, galvanized carbon steel, carbon steel, or stainless steel material.

0199While the present invention has been disclosed with reference to certain embodiments, numerous modifications, alterations, and changes to the described embodiments are possible without departing from the sphere and scope of the present invention, as defined in the appended claims. Accordingly, it is intended that the present invention not be limited to the described embodiments, but that it has the full scope defined by the language of the following claims, and equivalents thereof.